THE reputation of Trafford’s schools has led to a ‘huge surge’ in demand for primary school places across the borough.

Trafford’s grammar schools are proving incredibly popular as parents try to get their little ones into the borough’s feeder school primaries.

It is understood that places in the upper year groups, namely Years 5 and 6, are the most sought after.

Since 2010, Trafford Council has had to create an extra 4,000 primary school places to cope with demand.

This year has seen unprecedented levels of interest in primary school places across the borough, with 600 applications over the summer period alone, and the council is trying to find space for them all.

Education chiefs say they have faced a huge surge in demand for in-year primary school places in particular but are reassuring parents that they are working hard to meet the additional requests.

The excellent reputation of Trafford’s schools has sparked an increase in families wanting to move to the borough and education officials say they are aiming to offer as many places as possible within a reasonable distance of a child’s home.

The children will then start school as soon as possible following their allocation.

Council officers are also working closely with headteachers to use available space within schools, to accommodate additional pupils.

Funding is set be allocated to do this and the matter will be discussed at the next council executive meeting on Monday.

Earlier this year Trafford was able to offer 98 per cent of applicants who applied for reception places their first or second choice of school.

A spokesperson for Trafford Council said: “Trafford is a diverse borough and we continue to welcome new families and young people into the area. The excellent reputation of our schools has seen us face unprecedented demand for in-year school places during this summer.

“We are working closely with headteachers to find places for all these applicants and ensure children attend a school that is within a reasonable distance of their homes.

“Trafford is a great place to live. The fact that people want to come to Trafford is a reflection of the superb schools we have here and the amazing teachers and school staff, as well as the wonderful support they receive from parents.”

The spokesperson added: “While still maintaining high standards of education and strong parental satisfaction, our recent proposals for further school expansions will continue to allow our schools to remain effective and able to provide top quality education for our children and young people.”