Parents across the borough were manically refreshing their inboxes yesterday to find out which school their children will be attending in September and indeed for the next seven years of their lives.

Data revealed by London Councils shows that 86.51per cent of parents were offered their first choice in the borough, with 6.79pc allocated their second preference.

A little under 2pc were given their third choice with 1.15 given fourth and 0.47 given their fifth.

Only 0.25pc of applicants were given their sixth choice.

Cllr Benham, cabinet member for children and learning, said: “Once again we have been able to offer the vast majority of children a place in one of their preferred schools – I am aware that a small majority of parents will be disappointed that they did not get any of their six preferences.

“Our figures are fractionally down on last year, but we remain high up on the table for London.

“The challenge for us now is to make sure that we continue to provide our young people with the excellent education they deserve and to ensure that there are new school places for our growing population.”

More than 90pc (97.09) of pupils in Havering have been offered a place in one of their preferred six primary schools, with 95 per cent offered a place in one of their top three choices.

“By advertising and working closely with parents, schools and early years settings, the admissions team ensure that parents are made aware of how and when to apply for a school place,” said cllr Benham.

“Although there has been a significant increase in the demand for primary school places within Havering, the school organisation team has continued to work closely with the school admissions team, to ensure there is a sufficient supply of school places to meet the required demand.”

Parents have until May 2 to accept or decline the offer.

Visit havering.gov.uk for more information.