Thousands of P7 pupils across Northern Ireland will today find out which post-primary school they will be going to in September.

Education Minister John O’Dowd has revealed that the majority of children have been successful in securing a place in their first choice school.

Mr O’Dowd said: “I want to offer my best wishes to the thousands of children and their parents, who today found out which post-primary school they will go to in September.

“The transition from primary school to post-primary can be daunting for children but it also opens up a whole new world of possibilities. I hope they look forward to moving to their new schools with anticipation and excitement.

“However, it is important to note that we have excellent schools and teachers across all sectors so I would hope that all children will be able to settle in to their post-primary school and benefit from the quality education offered. I wish all children starting new schools in September every success.”

Although the Sinn Fein minister is opposed to academic selection, Mr O’Dowd made no reference to the so-called breakaway tests, which were used mainly by the grammar schools in order to determine intake of pupils.