Children's Commissioner expresses concern

The Northern Ireland Commissioner for Children has expressed her fear that children will suffer increased anxiety as a result of the school transfer chaos.

The Commissioner said that both sides of the transfer debate have become embroiled in a argument that has left pupils and parents confused over what was the best way to transfer to post-primary education.

“Parents want the best possible schooling for the children, and pupils want the school were they will be happiest.”

Ms Lewsley said there was a small window of opportunity to resolve the confusion.

“I urge both sides to remember that this debate is about children’s education. They have enough anxiety transferring to the ‘big’ school without the current situation adding to it.

“I am not going to say which side is the best option for children, but I urge all concerned to ask children what they want.

“The best people to ask are the children who have recently experienced the transfer and who are about to transfer can help this process.

Ms Lewsley said she would be writing to the Minister urging her to consult with children over her current proposals.