Northern Ireland

11-plus registrations facing delays

The AQE warned parents that registrations for this year's exams may be delayed
The AQE warned parents that registrations for this year's exams may be delayed The AQE warned parents that registrations for this year's exams may be delayed

PARENTS of children preparing to take 11-plus tests later this year have been warned there may be a delay.

The exams, which are operated by two different groups, are due to take place in November.

Members of the assembly education committee were told that minister Peter Weir has been asked to facilitate a postponement.

It is understood the organisations are concerned that Covid-19 restrictions have affected preparations for the grammar school entrance papers.

The Association for Quality Education (AQE), which operates one of the exams, said it was aware that the lockdown and closure of schools may disadvantage groups of children from different sections of the community in very different ways.

It said it was working to plan the AQE tests in such a way that these disadvantages were minimised.

"This is a very uncertain time for everyone involved in education, not least for parents and pupils. AQE is endeavouring to provide clarity to P6 pupils and parents about the arrangements for the tests which are scheduled to take place during the next academic year," it said.

"Registration is due to open on Wednesday 29th April 2020 for applications from parents of P6 children who will sit the AQE assessments in the autumn.

"AQE Limited is having ongoing discussions with key stakeholders to ensure that the best possible provision is made for applicants and, for this reason, the date of registration may be delayed."

SDLP education committee member Justin McNulty said he hoped Mr Weir would facilitate discussions.

"I appreciate it's not under his department's control, however we all recognise that in these unique and unprecedented times, young people and families are under enough pressure. Postponing the 11-plus would be a sensible move," he said.