Is first preference first system still used by any LEAs?

[bunnybunyip]

Just wanted to check as this would make a difference to my application, and out of interest. I could always check with the LEA but mumsnet is much easier!

No. "First preference first" is specifically forbidden by the School Admissions Code in Paragraph 1.9 (c).

Good luck with your application!

Brilliant, thanks

HOWEVER if you have an equal choice of getting into TWO schools, then you need to think carefully about which order you put them in! I am exactly 1.1m away, in different directions, from TWO primary schools! When it comes to my DS3's primary application, if I put my second choice first, there is a fair chance of getting that school rather than my first choice IYSWIM.

And you won't get your first choice if you put it third but you meet the criteria for your first school on your form - if you put that school first, you meet the criteria for that school, then you will get that school rather than one further down on your list that you also meet the criteria for.

I think what the last poster is driving at is that you MUST put your preferences in the correct order, naming the school you really want for your child as first preference even if it is unlikely you will get a place.