MOST church primary schools in Bournemouth have removed the need to attend church from their admission criteria.

For the first time, hundreds of children will gain places simply by living in the school's catchment area.

Many parents who have attended church in the hope it will give them priority over others will be disappointed when primary school place allocations are announced this month.

At St Katharine's in Rolls Drive, Southbourne and St James' in Christchurch Road, Pokesdown, policies were changed last year.

This September will see intakes under the new admission criteria.

Bethany Junior School, St Clement’s and St John’s Infant School, St Luke’s Primary School and Moordown St John’s Primary School have also changed the rules, which will take effect for those starting in September 2018 onwards.

A statement from St Clement and St John's and Bethany says: "Our admissions policy has always aimed to follow current guidelines and support the Christian ethos of the school, Christian families and local community in line with the deeds of the school.

"A guiding principle of admissions to St Clement’s and St John’s Church of England Infant School and Bethany Church of England Junior School is that the schools should serve equally those who are of the Christian faith, those of other faiths and those with no faith.

"After reflection and discussion with local church leaders, the admissions policy has therefore been adapted to continue this aim in line with the Diocese of Winchester's recommended admissions policy and the inclusivity recommended in the admissions code."

It says the category of being an "active member of a Christian church" was removed from oversubscription criteria after consultation with other church schools.

It adds: "This does not affect our status as church schools nor diminish our commitment to developing our Christian values and distinctiveness."

Jeff Williams, director of education representing both the Winchester and Portsmouth Diocese, said: "Our vision for education is deeply Christian and serving the common good is at its heart.

"We believe that, as a result of these recent changes to admissions policies, our schools are becoming even more inclusive, and better-placed to fulfil that original mission. Looked-after children and those with special education needs continue to be prioritised above all others.

"The educational experience we offer is about taking faith seriously, an approach that gives attention to spiritual as well as academic development. Our parents welcome the opportunity to send their children to a school which reflects freedom of religion and belief, whilst being clear about the Christian heritage on which its ethos and values are based. Ultimately, our schools are for children of all faiths and none."