ONE in 10 parents have not been given a place for their child at their school of choice.

Figures from Hampshire County Council show that 10 per cent of parents were not offered their first choice school for their child this year.

However, although some parents may be disappointed at having missed out on their first choice of school, only three per cent were not offered a place at any of their three chosen schools.

The council dealt with more than 15,000 applications for children starting primary school in September.

In common with the national picture, demand for school places is growing, and the council has been working to increase capacity at primary schools in areas where demand is highest.

This includes expanding a number of schools and building new ones, including one at Rooksdown, Basingstoke.

Parents who did not secure a place for their child at their school of choice can appeal, and put their child’s name on a waiting list.