In a remarkable turn of events, around 14,000 children in Northern Ireland have received their results from the newly implemented common transfer test. This test marks a significant shift in the post-primary transfer system, being the most substantial change since the abolition of the 11 Plus in 2008. Results from the test, held in a single format for the first time, will be used by over 60 schools to decide admissions for their upcoming Year 8 cohort.
Administrated by the Schools Entrance Assessment Group (SEAG), the common transfer test has streamlined the previously complex system. Where students once faced potentially five assessments, they now sit just two exams. In a further advancement, the results were made available online for the first time, marking a step towards greater accessibility and efficiency. The new system, however, has not put to rest the ongoing debate about academic selection at the age of 11, with many still calling for comprehensive reform in the education system.
The results are based on the Total Standardised Age Score (TSAS) and the Band. These are the criteria that SEAG schools will use within their Year 8 Admissions Criteria. Parents can apply for a place at their chosen school via the EA admissions portal, which will be open from noon on Tuesday until noon on Thursday, February 22. The results of the admission will be released on Saturday, May 18.
Michael Carville, Chairperson of SEAG and Principal at Regent House School, congratulated the pupils and advised them to carefully read each school’s admissions criteria. He recommended consultation with their primary school principal and teacher, along with leveraging resources that compare the SEAG score with previous tests like AQE and PPTC. However, Northern Ireland Children’s Commissioner Chris Quinn reminded families that their test results do not define their children. Having failed his own 11-Plus, Quinn emphasized focusing on children’s wellbeing and criticizing the persistent stress and complexity associated with the transfer test system. He called for significant systemic change, highlighting that the children’s experience during their Primary 7 year should be positive as they transition to the next stage of their education.
The introduction of the common transfer test has been a long-awaited milestone in Northern Ireland’s education landscape. By reducing the number of assessments and providing a standardized format, it aims to alleviate some of the stress and confusion that often accompanies the transition from primary to post-primary education. With over 60 schools utilizing the common transfer test results for their Year 8 admissions, it is expected to have a significant impact on the allocation of places.
The Chairman of SEAG, Michael Carville, praised the students for their efforts and encouraged them to familiarize themselves with the admissions criteria of their preferred schools. He emphasized the importance of seeking guidance from primary school principals and teachers and accessing resources that compare the SEAG scores with previous tests. This will enable students and their parents to make informed decisions and navigate the admissions process more effectively.
However, the implementation of the common transfer test has not completely resolved the ongoing debate surrounding academic selection at the age of 11. Critics argue that a more comprehensive overhaul of the education system is needed to address the associated inequalities and pressures placed on young students. Northern Ireland Children’s Commissioner, Chris Quinn, stressed the importance of prioritizing children’s well-being and called for significant systemic change. Drawing from his own experience of failing the 11-Plus, Quinn emphasized that test results should not define a child and highlighted the need for a positive and supportive transition experience.
As the first results from the common transfer test become available, parents now have the opportunity to apply for a place at their chosen school through the online EA admissions portal. The application period will be open for a limited time, and it is crucial for parents to submit their preferences within the designated timeframe. The results of the admissions process will be announced on Saturday, May 18, giving families ample time to plan for the next stage of their child’s education.
The introduction of the common transfer test marks a significant shift in Northern Ireland’s education landscape. While streamlining the transfer process, it has also reignited the debate surrounding academic selection. As students and parents navigate this new system, it is important to prioritize the well-being of the children and ensure that their transition to post-primary education is a positive and supported experience.
