I propose to take Questions Nos. 73 and 74 together.
I can confirm to the Deputy that my Department is in receipt of an application for additional accommodation from the school in question. I wish to advise the Deputy that the assessment process to determine the school’s permanent accommodation needs is nearing completion. The provision of any additional accommodation on the site must be carefully planned considering the limitations of the site. A decision will be conveyed to the Patron as soon as the assessment process is completed.
I also wish to advise that in order to meet the immediate accommodation needs of the school, interim accommodation has been approved. I can confirm the Patron is currently tendering for the interim accommodation approved and it is expected to have all interim accommodation in place for September 2020.
In relation to school admissions, parents can choose which school to apply to and where the school has places available, the pupil should be admitted. However, in schools where there are more applicants than places available, a selection process may be necessary. This selection process and the enrolment policy on which it is based must be non-discriminatory and must be applied fairly in respect of all applicants. However, this may result in some pupils not obtaining a place in the school of their first choice. The Deputy will note however that the selection process procedures and enrolment policy are the responsibility of the individual school authorities.