Lambeth Council: All children offered primary school places

April 16, 2026

South London News On Your Doorstep Desk Edited By Jimmy Nsubuga

Lambeth Council has confirmed that every child who applied for a reception place in a local primary school for September 2026 has been offered a place. Figures released on Thursday 16 April reveal that 80.64% of applicants received their first-choice school, with a further 9.18% offered their second choice. In total, 96.42% of applicants secured a place at one of their preferred schools.

Admissions Process and Pan-London Collaboration

The council received 2,124 applications for primary school places this year. This success is attributed to the collaborative pan-London admissions system, which links the 32 London authorities and five surrounding councils. This co-ordinated approach ensures a smoother admissions process, as the majority of preferences made by Lambeth residents are within the capital. Across London as a whole, 87.9% of children due to start primary school this September have been offered a place at their first-preference school. The Pan London Admissions Board, which has overall responsibility for co-ordinating school admissions in the capital, reported that 97.9% of all London applicants received an offer at one of their preferred schools.

Council Response and Context

Andrew Carter, Corporate Director for Children, Families and Education at Lambeth Council, stated, "National Offer Day confirms primary school offers for families across Lambeth. Parents and carers can now respond to their offer and will find information about next steps, waiting lists and appeals in their notifications." He added, "It’s exciting that new children will be starting in September. Some will discover their future role models and make new friends for life. We are delighted to welcome them and their families." The overall number of applications for London primary schools this year saw a 2.2% decrease compared to the previous year, with 85,336 applications received in total. This contrasts with national figures, where the average class size in primary schools in England was 26.6 pupils in January 2023. The pan-London system aims to maximise the number of children placed in their preferred schools, with Lambeth's figures aligning closely with the London-wide average for first preferences.

Author

South London News On Your Doorstep Desk Edited By Jimmy Nsubuga

From Town Hall decisions to resident-led reports, the South London News On Your Doorstep Desk offers comprehensive coverage of the issues that matter to your street. Our editorial staff provide critical updates on local planning, council services, and neighbourhood initiatives, ensuring our readers never miss a change to their local area.

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