Scroll down to see our guide on primary school places.

Almost 87 per cent of children applying for a primary school place in Buckinghamshire were offered their first choice this year, but some families were not as successful.

The figures, released by Bucks County Council, show an increase of 2.5 per cent on last year in terms of children being allocated their first preference.

Overall, 5,538 of the 6,385 applicants were given their first choice school.

However, it has not been plain sailing for everyone, with three per cent of children not getting any of their preferred schools.

BCC cabinet member for education and skills, Cllr Zahir Mohammed, said: “We know what an important and potentially anxious time this is for parents, so we will do our utmost to try to achieve the best possible outcome for those who, for whatever reason, are not offered a school of their choice.”

Take a look at the below guide on how the school selection system works and what to do if you have been left unhappy:

How do schools allocate places?

Each school has a set number of places for the new school year, starting in September.

If too many people apply, admission criteria will decide who gets a place.

Admission criteria can be different for each school.

How can you appeal?

You should fill out the relevant form from your council’s website and supply any evidence to support your application.

The panel will not have copies of any documents you have previously sent with your school application, so you must sent them again if you want the panel to consider them.

You must appeal against each rejection separately.

What is the deadline for appeals?

All local authorities and schools say appeals should be submitted as soon as possible. Details of the deadline will be included on your offer letter.

When do hearings take place?

The ‘admission authority’ for the school (usually the school itself or the council) must give you at least 10 school days’ notice of the hearing. Appeals must be heard within 40 school days of the deadline for making an appeal.

Who will hear your appeal?

Appeals are heard by an independent panel made up of three people.

When will I find out the decision?

The panel will send you and the admission authority their decision within 5 school days.

A panel’s decision can only be overturned by a court. If there’s a change in your circumstances which could affect the decision, you may be able to appeal again.

Have you got your preferred place? Comment below or email andrew.colley@london.newsquest.co.uk