Education Minister Paul Givan has opened an eight-week public consultation aimed at giving parents greater say over where their children go to school by making it easier for schools with space to admit additional pupils.

The plans focus on reforming the Temporary Variation (TV) process, which allows schools to request permission to exceed their approved admissions or enrolment numbers in defined circumstances.

Launching the consultation, Paul Givan said: "Earlier this year, I set out my plans to reform Northern Ireland's school admissions system in a Ministerial statement. Today marks the next step in delivering that reform.

"The changes I am proposing put parents and children first when deciding on school admissions. There are currently too many children who are refused admission to their preferred school, even when capacity exists and the school can safely accommodate additional pupils. I want to change that so that every child has a fair chance of getting into the school that best suits their needs."

Consultation feedback will inform decisions on the future operation of the Temporary Variation Policy ahead of the 2027 admissions process.

The Minister added: "I am committed to creating an education system that listens to parents, reflects their preferences and responds to the needs of children and families.

"I also recognise the need for flexibility for children with Special Educational Needs as demand for SEN provision continues to grow. Any revised approach must support access for children with SEN. "The consultation seeks views on how we can better respond to parental preference, but also on the safeguards that may be needed to ensure all children, including those with SEN, can access suitable school places.

"I encourage parents, schools and all interested stakeholders to consider the proposals and share their views."

Key proposals include a presumption of approval for TV requests in primary schools where capacity exists and pupils can be admitted safely, with a similar presumption for non-selective post-primary schools. Academically selective post-primary schools would continue to be considered on a case-by-case basis, and there would be greater flexibility for pupils who already hold a school place to transfer in line with parental wishes.

Demographic projections indicate that by the 2033–34 academic year overall school enrolment is expected to fall by 12.7%, with primary enrolment projected to decline by 20.4% and post-primary by 9.5%.

The consultation is open from 16 September for eight weeks and can be accessed at: www.education-ni.gov.uk/consultations/review-temporary-variation-policy-consultation

Further detail is available in the Written Ministerial Statement: www.education-ni.gov.uk/publications/written-ministerial-statement-temporary-variation-policy-review