Kent School Places: More Kids Land First-Choice Spot in 2022
Just under 22,000 parents and carers applied for a Kent school place for their child starting September 2022. That’s 21,889 in total, with 18,311 from Kent itself – slightly down by 375 from last year. Yet, despite fewer applications, the number of Kent pupils actually rose by 38.
First-Choice Offers Soar
Good news for families: 79.6% of Kent pupils got a place at their first-choice school this year, up from 69.7% in 2021. That’s a jump from 12,736 to 14,574 kids securing their top pick.
Shellina Prendergast, Kent County Council’s Cabinet Member for Education and Skills, said:
“The past year has been incredibly tough for pupils, families, and school staff alike. I want to thank teachers and support staff for their hard work educating our children under difficult circumstances. I also salute the KCC team managing the tough job of placing nearly 20,000 pupils in secondary schools.”
“More than 95% of pupils will start school at a preferred choice selected by their families. Sadly, a small number won’t get any of their preferences this round. I encourage parents in this position to talk to the allocated schools—they may find the school a perfect fit.”
Important Info for Parents
- Families who applied online should check emails from 4pm Tuesday, March 1. Offers can be viewed online from 5pm.
- Paper applicants will receive their offers by First Class post the same day.
- About 4.64% (850 pupils) were allocated places by KCC at schools outside their preferences, up slightly from last year.
- Parents must request to join waiting lists for preferred schools by Monday, March 15.
- Second round offers will be made on Wednesday, April 21 for any spots that open up.
- Appeals can be lodged directly with schools by Friday, March 26.
Mrs Prendergast added: “Our team is ready to help families who have questions or worries. Don’t hesitate to contact Kent County Council for advice and support.”
Why Some Kids Miss Out
Of the 845 children allocated by the Local Authority this year, only five parents listed every possible eligible school, making it harder to find places. Meanwhile, 65 parents didn’t select any schools their child was eligible to attend. The law says all preferences must be met first, often filling local schools quickly.
The move towards online applications continues, with 98.66% of families applying online this year. This shift helps the environment and speeds up processing.
Need Help or More Info?
- Email Kent admissions at [email protected]
- Visit kent.gov.uk/secondaryadmissions for details on waiting lists and appeals.
Key Dates to Remember
- Monday, March 15 – Deadline to accept offers and return waiting list forms.
- Friday, March 26 – Appeals deadline for named schools.
- Wednesday, April 21 – Second round of offers sent out.
- After April 21 – Parents can apply directly to schools to join waiting lists (grammar schools only accept children assessed as suitable).
