Just less than 70 per cent of Barnet children will be starting at their first-choice secondary school in September.

This year Barnet Council received 7,407 applications – 3,957 from Barnet residents and 3,450 from those in other boroughs.

Every Barnet parent who applied on time for a secondary school place for their child has received an offer of a place, though a good 30 per cent missed out on their top choice.

Chair of the children, education, libraries and safeguarding committee Cllr Reuben Thompstone said: “As in previous years the popularity of our schools has meant a very high demand for places, so I am delighted we have been able to provide a place to every pupil who applied on time.

“Once again Barnet’s schools have done a great job in rising to the challenge.”

This year, more than 86 per cent who applied were offered at least one of their top three preferences.