Every child had a reception place as the new school term started last week, with 91 per cent at one of their six picks.

In an increase from last year’s provision of places, 75 per cent of children got their first choice, 9 per cent their second choice and just under 4 per cent their third choice.

Last year, 89 per cent of children got a place at one of their top six schools.

Due to a huge surge in applications for reception places this year, Richmond Council has added 10 additional classes, six of which are permanent.

The council’s cabinet member for schools, Councillor Paul Hodgins, said: “The increasing pressure to find enough primary places is a challenge affecting councils and schools across the country.

“The issue in Richmond is particularly acute because our schools have such high levels of attainment, so they continue to be extremely popular.

“As part of our long term school places strategy we have worked closely with schools across the borough to maximise existing space. By September 2013, we will have added an additional 21 permanent forms of reception entry across the borough since 2000.”

The permanent expansions include Heathfield Infant and Heathfield Junior, from three to four forms of entry, Hampton Wick Infant and Nursery and St John the Baptist Cof E Junior, which will both go from two to three forms of entry.

Orleans Infant and St Stephen’s CofE Junior are being converted into two-form entry primary schools, which will provide an extra 30 places a year.

Applications for reception class places starting in autumn 2013 can be made online now, until January 15, 2013.

To apply, visit richmond.gov.uk/primary_school_admissions.