More children across the county have got a place at their first choice of secondary school than last year.

Children across the county have today found out which secondary school they will be going to in September.

More than 4,000 children applied for a place at secondary and upper schools in Dorset.

This year, 97 per cent of children received the good news that they have got their first choice of secondary or upper school - a two per cent increase on last year.

Dorset County Council (DCC) processed a total of 4116 applications from Dorset residents in readiness for today’s Secondary National Offer Day.

Cllr Andrew Parry, DCC cabinet member for education, learning and skills said: “Secondary Offer Day is a big day for children across the county, as well as their parents and carers. We are delighted that so many children have received an offer of a place at their first preference school.

“I wish every student the best of luck as they prepare to take the next step in their education in September.”

The county far outstrips the national average, as according to The Good School's Guide, around 20 per cent of pupils across the country do not get their first choice of secondary school.

The outcome of primary, middle or junior school applications will be released on April 16.