The number of children receiving their first choice of secondary school in the borough continues to be higher than the London average.

New figures, published on National Secondary Offer Day earlier this week, show that 72.9% of the borough’s children received an offer from their first preference school. This is higher than the London average of 70.5% and places Ealing 10th out of 33 London boroughs for first preference offers.

Almost 9 in 10 families in the borough received one of their top 3 preferences for children due to start Year 7 in September. Overall, 88.6% of the borough’s children secured one of their top three choices. The London average is 89.6%.

Councillor Josh Blacker, the council’s cabinet member for a fairer start, said: “These figures are a real testament to the strength of our local schools and the hard work of families and education staff across the borough. I am delighted that so many children received their first choice secondary school, and that almost nine in ten secured one of their top three preferences.”

He added: “Families can feel confident that the borough offers high quality education and a strong range of options.”

The Pan London Admissions Scheme ensures a fair and transparent process by matching each child to the highest ranked school for which they meet the criteria.

What happens next?

Families who applied on time for a secondary place will have received an email offering a school place. They will need to confirm whether they are accepting or declining the place that has been offered by 16 March 2026.

Places will continue to be offered from waiting lists as vacancies arise. You can find more information and guidance on the council’s website.