More pupils are getting their first choice of secondary schools.

Essex County Council has revealed there has been a five per cent increase in children being offered their first preference of school.

Nearly 87 pc were offered their first choice, with 7 pc getting their second preference.

Essex County Cllr Stephen Castle, cabinet member for education and lifelong learning, said: “I am sure parents and pupils across the county share my delight at learning that even more pupils are securing their first choice of secondary school.

“We have some great secondary schools across the county and we are committed to continuing to work with schools to achieve a world class education system that parents and pupils will be proud of. I wish pupils and parents every success with starting this new phase of learning. “

Essex County Council received a total of 14,242 applications for secondary school places with 95 pc now applying online.