Prospective pupils could be judged on 'faith-based' rules

AN oversubscribed primary school may introduce a new 'faith-based' entry criteria for kids.

- By CHARLOTTE HALL

St Chad's C of E primary school

Parents who want to send their children to St Chad's C of E primary school in Oldham next year may have to provide evidence their children regularly go to church to be considered.

The Forward as One Trust school on Rhodes Avenue accepts around 30 pupils each year and is the only primary in Uppermill. But with the number of applications exceeding the admission slots, St Chad's is currently consulting on new admissions criteria for the 2027 intake.

These would give first priority to looked-after children; second priority to siblings of children already at the school; third priority to churchgoers; fourth to medical or social needs that the school can meet; and fifth to local residents.