Croydon parents and carers have today heard (Thursday 16 April) which primary school their child has been offered a reception place for this September.
The percentage of parents or carers receiving one of their top three preference primary schools is 98.2%, an increase of 1.71% compared to 2025. This is above the London average of 97%.
89.6% of children received their first choice, which also is up by 3% compared to 2025. This is also above the London average of 88.4%.
A total of 4,082 applications were received this year, which is down from 4,302 in 2025, primarily due to the fall in birth rate.
Parents and carers must accept or decline their offer of a primary school place by 30 April 2026.
For details on how to accept a school place, on how to appeal or for information about schools that have vacant places, please see the council website.
Stuart Collins, corporate director for children, young people and education said:
“We are delighted that once again most Croydon families have been offered a place at one of their preferred primary schools, with almost 90% of children receiving their first choice school. This reflects the hard work and close collaboration between our schools and council teams to support families at this important milestone. Starting school is such an exciting time for children and their families, and we wish all our new starters every success and happiness as they begin their school journey this September.”
