Application and interpretation of this Chapter
22.—(1) Subject to paragraphs (2) and (3), this Chapter applies in relation to the admission of children to pre-school education at grant-aided schools.
(2) This Chapter applies in relation to the admission of a child to pre-school education at a grant-aided school taking effect, or proposed admission which would take effect, in the school year ending on 31st July 2000 and in any subsequent school year.
(3) This Chapter does not apply in relation to—
(a)special schools;
(b)schools established in hospitals; or
(c)the admission to pre-school education at grant-aided schools of children in respect of whom statements are maintained under Article 16 of the [1996 NI 1.] Education (Northern Ireland) Order 1996.
(4) In this Chapter—
(a)any reference to a school is a reference to a grant-aided school at which pre-school education is provided;
(b)any reference to full-time pre-school education is a reference to pre-school education normally provided for at least 4 hours and 30 minutes on each school day, and any reference to part-time pre-school education is a reference to pre-school education normally provided for less than that amount of time but for at least 2 hours and 30 minutes on each school day;
(c)any reference to full-time pupils registered at a school is a reference to pupils registered at a school who are receiving full-time pre-school education, and any reference to part— time pupils registered at a school is a reference to pupils registered at a school who are receiving part-time pre-school education;
(d)any reference to an appeal tribunal is a reference to an appeal tribunal constituted in accordance with regulations under Article 15(8) of the [1997 NI 5.] Education (Northern Ireland) Order 1997;
(e)any reference to a school year is a reference to a year ending on 31st July.
(5) The Department may by order amend paragraph (4)(b).
(6) Directions and approvals of the Department under this Chapter shall be given in writing.