This year, Barking and Dagenham achieved the highest first preference secondary school placements in London.

Figures show that out of 3,162 applications, 2,770 (87.6 percent) of 10 and 11-year-olds have been offered their first preference, far exceeding the capital’s average of 71.6 percent, and outperforming every other London borough.

Councillor Elizabeth Kangethe, Cabinet Member for Educational Attainment and School Improvement, said: 

"I’m really pleased that Barking and Dagenham is consistently providing most of our young people with places at their first-choice secondary schools. 

“The satisfaction of both the students and their parents as they prepare for this significant educational milestone, within one of their chosen schools, is deeply fulfilling. I couldn't be prouder. I want to say a big thank you to the School Admissions team for their tireless efforts and dedication."

For those who missed out on their first preference, the borough also performed above the London-wide average for top three preferences. 96.64 percent of applicants in the borough received an offer on a school in their top three, compared to 90.48 percent London-wide.

Overall, 97.94 percent of applicants in the borough have been offered one of their preferences compared with the London average of 94.84 percent.