The government have launched a new pilot system for online applications to secondary school.
The pilot system, titled ApplyToSchool.ie, will see schools in several areas across the country streamline the application process when applying for a secondary school place from Wednesday (October 1) to October 22.
The pilot, launched by Minister for Education Helen McEntee, will allow parents and guardians to apply for first-year places, including special class, using a quick and easy online application.
15 schools in Athenry, Co Galway; Celbridge, Co Kiladre; Greystones, Co Wicklow; Clonakilty, West Cork; and Tullamore/Killina, Offaly will participate in the pilot scheme, with Ms McEntee thanking them for committing to the pilot.
‘I want to acknowledge the tremendous work that has been done by staff in these post-primary schools who have worked with parents and the department to prepare for this launch,’ Ms McEntee said. ‘This pilot is a major step toward delivering a nationwide common application system that will simplify the admissions process for families and schools alike.
‘The move from primary to post-primary school can be stressful for families and the aim of this new online pilot application is to ease the burden on families around the application phase. This pilot is a first step to introducing a more streamlined approach for families and schools, including those looking for a special class placement, and will offer valuable insights as we work towards a nationwide roll-out.’
‘A major benefit of the pilot will be that after a parent accepts an offer in round 1, any other school in which that parent has accepted a place will be notified,’ she continued. ‘These parents will be contacted directly by the schools and asked to choose their preferred school, allowing those other schools to offer those places to other children in round 2.
‘This will ensure significantly greater transparency for schools and ensure that school places are allocated more quickly and efficiently.’
Minister of State with responsibility for Special Education and Inclusion, Michael Moynihan TD, also welcomed the move, saying ‘it’s fantastic to see this school admissions pilot system being rolled-out.’
‘This will make an enormous difference to families up and down the country and will give peace of mind to parents, especially those seeking a special educational placement. I want to thank the staff, patrons and management bodies for their continued support in this pilot programme.’
Applications for the new system open on Wednesday, October 1, and will run until October 22 via ApplyToSchool.ie.
Round 1 offers will go out on November 12, while round 2 offers will be released on December 4.
