We had to place our kids in the only school we could get a place in while we were wait-listed at our preferred schools. We heard things like "200 on the waiting list" etc, but we did get offered places after one term. We had other options for different in kids in different schools but took the interim option so we could at least have them in the same school.

I have heard that some companies have "reserved" places at schools so check with your employer.