CHILDREN sitting the transfer test could be seated in class bubbles as part of safety measures being considered.
The plan could be put in place if social distancing of two metres is not possible, according to draft guidance from the Association for Quality Education (AQE).
The tests, which are normally held in grammar schools, are due to take place in January.
They had been due to be held this month, but were pushed back after the AQE and Post-Primary Transfer Consortium (PPTC) agreed to postpone the tests following the disruption caused by the coronavirus pandemic.
The BBC has reported that schools hosting the tests have been told to adhere to the 2m guidance between pupils "if staffing and accommodation allow".
But children could be seated in "primary school class bubbles" as an alternative, the AQE has said.
"Primary school class bubbles must be maintained within rooms," the draft guidance states.
"It is possible to have several bubbles within a large room, however, it is recommended that each bubble is situated at least two metres apart from the next bubble.
"Schools will be responsible for establishing which pupils from the same primary school are in which bubbles."
The guidance also states that staff invigilating the tests will wear gloves to hand out and collect papers and will be provided with masks or visors.
One-way systems are also expected to be in operation in schools, which will also provide hand sanitizer to primary seven pupils.
The guidance also suggests that schools carry out risk assessments prior to the tests.
