Northern Ireland

Schools online admissions system begins with some parents experiencing difficulties

EA director of operations Sara Long
EA director of operations Sara Long EA director of operations Sara Long

THOUSANDS of parents applied for school places for their children on the first day of a new online system, with a "small number" experiencing some difficulties.

The application process was launched by the Education Authority (EA) yesterday and will remain open for the rest of the month.

Parents whose children are starting pre-school or primary school in September 2019 can apply via eani.org.uk.

The EA had reminded people that places would not allocated on a first come first served basis. Schools and play groups will only consider applications after the closing date.

However, around 6,000 applications were completed online within the first few hours yesterday.

The EA said "a small number of users have experienced some difficulties" and it was working to resolve difficulties.

"EA apologises for any inconvenience caused and reminds parents/guardians that the admissions process is open until January 31."

Director of operations and estates Sara Long urged parents to submit at least four preferences.

"The new online process for applying for a pre-school or primary school place for September 2019 is easy to use," she said.

"The online application form is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week up to the closing date of Thursday January 31 2019.

"While most children obtain a place at one of their preferred settings, this cannot be guaranteed. Parents can list as many pre-schools/schools as they wish but by listing at least four, the likelihood of not being offered a place at the close of the procedure is decreased."