https://www.northyorks.gov.uk/questions-and-answersQuote:
In line with the School Admissions Code (2014) we operate an equal preference with ranking system.
This is a national model designed to ensure, as far as possible, parent/carers' preferences for particular schools are considered fairly, equitably and consistently.
Equal preference requires the admission authority to consider all preferences received for a particular school (first, second, third, fourth and fifth) equally and, where the school is oversubscribed, apply the oversubscription criteria. Where more than one preference can be met the local authority will offer the highest ranking preference.
The CAF should be in your true order of preference. The one you want most at the top and the least at the bottom. Your last preference should be a school where your child is certain to get a place. Usually, your local catchment school.