'˜Academic selection demand is growing despite opt-outs'

Two Omagh Catholic grammar schools which are proposing to stop selecting pupils by academic tests are flying in the face of growing demand from parents, it has been claimed.

By The Newsroom

Published 20th Jan 2016, 05:00 BST

Updated 20th Jan 2016, 09:14 BST

Omagh Christian Brothers’ School (CBS) and Loreto Grammar, Omagh are to propose the change to the Education Authority.

They want the move on a phased basis from September 2017 “or as soon as possible” and to have “a totally non-academically selective intake by September 2020, or as soon as possible thereafter”.

A period of statutory consultation is to take place.

DUP education spokesman Peter Weir said: “Rather than wither on the vine, the numbers entering transfer tests are continuing to rise and this year more pupils sat the tests than at any stage since the abolition of the official departmental test.”

Sinn Fein MLA Chris Hazzard said: “Academic selection is outdated and unfair and has a negative impact on pupils, our education system and our society.

“I welcome the news that both Omagh CBS and Loreto Grammar School in Omagh have announced plans to end academic selection from next year.”