Review of Temporary Variation (TV) Policy

Overview

Thank you for taking the time to participate in the Temporary Variation (TV) policy review survey.  Your feedback is incredibly valuable in helping us understand the needs and preferences of those directly involved with schools. 

Please read the consultation document prior to completing the survey.

Where a school is oversubscribed with applications, it may apply to the department to admit additional, named children.  The TV Policy (circular 2026/03) sets out the basis on which such applications are considered.  

The Department of Education is seeking views on a significant change in policy direction to reform the operation of the TV policy. These proposals reflect a broader shift towards placing children and families at the centre of decision making, strengthening parental choice, and ensuring the education system is more responsive to demand.

A review of the 2026 admissions cycle identified that, in some cases, outcomes did not align with parental expectations. This included situations where capacity existed in a preferred school but could not be utilised. This consultation focuses on how a revised, more responsive approach should operate in practice.

This review of TV Policy will not cover Sixth Form TV Policy or Temporary Flexibility Policy which is a temporary increase in the approved enrolment numbers for statutory pre-school settings.  It also does not cover special schools, which do not have approved admissions and enrolment numbers set by the department.