Clonakilty Schools Launch Pilot Online Admissions System

Two Clonakilty secondary schools are leading a nationwide trial of a new online application system designed to simplify post-primary school admissions for parents across Ireland.

Clonakilty Community College and Sacred Heart Secondary School went live today with applytoschool.ie, a streamlined platform that allows parents and guardians to apply for first-year places through a single online application. The system opens today, 1 October, and will accept applications until 22 October.

The pilot programme, launched by Minister for Education and Youth Helen McEntee TD, aims to ease the stress families face during school enrolment by creating a coordinated admissions process. The Clonakilty schools are among institutions in five pilot areas, including Athenry, Celbridge, Greystones and Tullamore/Killina.

Minister McEntee said:

"The move from primary to post-primary school can be stressful for families and the aim of this new online pilot application is to ease the burden on families around the application phase. This pilot is a first step to introducing a more streamlined approach for families and schools, including those looking for a special class placement, and will offer valuable insights as we work towards a nationwide roll-out."

A key innovation in the system addresses the common problem of duplicate applications. After parents accept an offer in round one, other schools where they have accepted places will be automatically notified, allowing those places to be offered to other children more quickly in round two.

Minister of State Michael Moynihan TD added:

"It's fantastic to see this school admissions pilot system being rolled-out. This will make an enormous difference to families up and down the country and will give peace of mind to parents, especially those seeking a special educational placement."

The system introduces fixed dates across all pilot schools. Applications close on 22 October, with round one offers going out on 12 November and parents given until 21 November to accept. Round two offers will be issued on 4 December, with acceptances due by 11 December.

The Department of Education and Youth worked closely with the Clonakilty schools, their patrons and management bodies to prepare for the launch. Consultation also involved the National Council for Special Education, Tusla's Education Support Service, the National Parents Council and local primary schools.

Parents can access the application system at applytoschool.ie throughout the three-week application window.