The good news is that nearly 95 per cent, have been offered their preferred choice of infant, first, primary, junior or middle school.

Out of 4,547 infant, first and primary and middle school applications received by Dorset Council School Admissions Team, they were able to offer 4,308 families their first choice of school – 94.7 per cent.

“These are unusual and difficult times, but today we are looking forward to September and a new school year,” said Cllr Andrew Parry, Dorset Council portfolio holder for Children, Education and Early Help. “Our work to try and offer families their preferred school has been continuing and I am delighted that so many children will be able to attend their first choice of school. It is a great achievement that first preference choices have been offered on this scale. Starting school or joining a new one is an important milestone in a child’s life and I would like to wish all pupils the very best of luck.

“We do not yet know when schools will re-open, but whatever lies ahead, I know Dorset schools will be working with families to make sure the transition and settling in process is as smooth as possible.”

Here are a few small things parents can do at home to help their child prepare for starting in reception:

• encourage them to get dressed, undressed and use the toilet independently
• help them become familiar with numbers, letters and sounds
• reading and singing nursery rhymes

Parents and carers, who applied for a school place online or who have given an email address, will be notified today by email.  More than 97 per cent applied online. Anyone without an email address should contact Dorset Council School Admissions Team on 01305 221060.