Enrolling a Child in Primary School in Ireland

Document Checklist

Child's birth certificate Purpose: Confirms the child's age and identityWho asks for it: Most schools, set by the school's own admissions policy A school may ask for this under its own admissions policy rather than because national law lists it. The Education (Admission to Schools) Act 2018 limits what a school can request — it cannot ask for a baptismal certificate as part of an application.
Proof of address When it is asked for: Where a school uses a catchment area or distance-based rule to decide between applicants if it is oversubscribedExamples: A recent household bill, tenancy agreement, or official letter showing your name and address Schools commonly request this only where the admissions policy selects on distance or catchment. There is no single national catchment rule, so check the individual school's notice for what it accepts.
Previous school reports When it applies: Where the child has already attended school, including abroadPurpose: Helps the school place the child appropriately A school may ask for these where relevant; a school may also request an educational assessment in some circumstances.
Child's PPS number Purpose: Kept for the school's records and reporting, not used as an admission criterionWhen you need it: Needed to enrol in an educational institution in Ireland The PPS number is held for the school's records — it does not decide whether the child gets a place. If the child does not yet have one, see the PPS number guide.