Speaking about the guide a spokesperson for the Department of Education said: “This guide for parents of P7 children sets out the new admissions arrangements under the Transfer 2010 guidance issued to schools in June. The Transfer 2010 policy sets out for schools proposed admissions criteria that do not require testing of children.
“If schools receive fewer applications than there are places available all children will be admitted. However, if there are more applications then the school must apply admissions criteria. It is recommended that all post-primary schools use their admissions criteria to make sure that they admit a fair number of children who are registered as entitled to free school meals. If any parent thinks their child may be entitled to free school meals they should ask the child’s school for an application form.”
The Department of Education does not recommend the use of entrance tests and the guide advises parents that the majority of post-primary schools will not be using entrance tests to select pupils for the September 2010 intake. However, for parents considering for their child post-primary schools that are using entrance tests, the guide suggests a range of questions they may wish to put to these schools.
In December 2009 the Department of Education will publish a further leaflet to help parents choose a post-primary school and complete the Transfer Form.
Notes to Editors:
Media queries to the Department of Education Press Office on 028 9127 9207. Out of office hours please contact the Duty Press Officer via pager number 07699 715 440 and your call will be returned.
