MORE than 500 families have missed out on every primary school they applied for their children to go to.

Just over three per cent of parents will receive letters telling them their children will not be going to any of the four preferences they submitted and have been assigned to the next nearest school.

For most of the 16,500 families across Essex waiting to find out the letters and emails will contain welcome news.

About 87 per cent – or 17 in every 20 children – got their first choice.

Just short of seven per cent got their second choice.

Chris Kiernan, the interim director for commissioning education at Essex County Council, said: “I am delighted we have been able to offer the majority of children their parents’ first preference primary school, despite the growing pressure on places.

“This achievement is a further demonstration of the continued investment we are making in creating additional primary school places, as well as the hard work and dedication of schools and admissions staff. “