CHANGES are being proposed to the school admissions process in Carmarthenshire to allow parents more choice.
The county council is planning to introduce a new first, second and third choice system for parents when applying for schools for their children.
The aim is to more accurately reflect the parent’s choice, which the current process does not do.
The application form would allow for up to three school choices, instead of an unlimited number which operates at the moment.
This should reduce waiting lists as pupils can be more accurately admitted to schools according to preference.
It would also reduce the number of applications refused, and any potential appeals against the decisions.
Consultation is taking place until the end of this month to give views on the proposed changes, which would come into effect for pupils starting school from September 2017.
Education executive board member Cllr Gareth Jones said: “We are seeking the views of people for the proposed changes which aim to introduce a better school admissions process.
“I would encourage people to give their feedback on this issue, all comments and views will be considered before any final decisions are made.”
The full consultation can be found under ‘Local Consultations’ on the Council website – https://ilocal.carmarthenshire.gov.wales/consultations
Responses can be sent by post to: Carmarthenshire Admissions Team, Department for Education and Children, Building 2, St David’s Park, Job’s Well Road, Carmarthen, SA31 3HB, or by email at: admissions@carmarthenshire.gov.uk
