The Lagan Valley MLA said: “Many parents of children who were awaiting notification of pre-school and P1 places have received admission emails this morning. This is despite the EA stating emails will be send out on the 9th April.

“I have been in touch with the EA who have confirmed the emails were sent out early in error. The important update for parents is the information on the letter is accurate in terms of the place their child has been allocated.

“The functionality for accepting a place has not been activated yet by EA and they are working to do this.

“I have spoken to parents who are very anxious. Some have received an email with a place for their child and some haven't. Principles of schools that I have spoken to have also been left in the dark and are working to try and get information to worried parents.

“The EA need to swiftly clarify the situation and get information out to all parents that have applied for a place for their child. They also need to support schools who will be dealing with a lot of calls and messages. 

“Once this immediate situation is dealt with the EA need to review how this has happened and ensure it doesn't happen again.”