North Northamptonshire Council enhances school transport support and records record primary place allocations

North Northamptonshire Council is inviting families to help improve school transport services. After a survey and engagement sessions, the council identified five priority areas: clearer communication with an Easy‑Read version of the transport policy, feedback on operator quality, new questions in annual reviews to foster independence, and a Personal Travel Budget trial that gives families funding to arrange journeys.

In parallel, the council allocated 3,744 reception places for September 2026, with 94.1% of applicants receiving a place at their first‑choice school and 99.07% receiving a place at one of their preferred schools – the highest figures recorded. All junior‑school (Year 3) applicants were offered a first‑preference place. Council executive member Cllr Elizabeth Wright welcomed the new pupils and noted the appeal process for families who did not secure a preferred place, with a further allocation round planned for May 2026.