Schools in Wicklow chosen for pilot scheme aimed at fairer enrolment process
The Wicklow PeopleA pilot single application system for a cluster of post-primary schools in north Wicklow will open for applications in October.
The nationwide scheme will begin with primary schools in Greytsones alongside Athenry, Celbridge, Clonakilty and Tullamore.
These are St David's Holy Faith Secondary School, Temple Carrig Secondary School and Greystones Community College.
The pilot will provide a single online application form for parents or guardians are looking to apply for a first-year place for their child in participating schools, including for special classes.
Parents will be able to apply to any or all schools within the pilot area on one online application.
Demographic shifts and the increasing demand for special class provision for students with special educational needs has placed growing pressure on school admissions across the country. In response to these challenges and to reform the admissions process, the Department of Education is working towards a nationwide common application system.
An online pilot is set to launch in autumn 2025 for the 2026/27 admissions cycle.
Education Minister Helen McEntee has said the initiative aims to streamline the application process, improve transparency, and support more effective planning and equitable access to school places.
“This pilot is an important step towards delivering a more efficient, transparent, and equitable school application process. It will reduce stress for parents and children, ease administrative burdens on schools, and support better planning for school places.
“This pilot allows us to deliver early benefits and gather critical feedback. It also holds transformative potential for families seeking special education placements.
“Stakeholder engagement will be central to the pilot’s success, and I look forward to working closely with schools, patrons, management bodies, and other key stakeholders in the five pilot areas.”
Applications will open from October 1, 2025 for school places in September 2026 and detailed information for parents and guardians will be available in September 2025.