After weeks of uncertainty, the post-primary transfer tests scheduled for this month have been cancelled as schools remain closed amid a surge in Covid-19 infections in the north.

The first of the tests, used to select pupils by the majority of grammar schools such as Enniskillen Royal Grammar School, was due to take place this Saturday.

The AQE tests were due to go ahead on January 9, 16 and 23 while the PPTC tests were set for Saturday January 30 and Saturday February 6.

In a statement released this afternoon, the PPTC said: "PPTC accept that this decision may be disappointing to many children who would have welcomed the opportunity to take the assessment."

AQE said: "The board of AQE Limited met on January 5, 2021, and in light of the decision to close schools, has decided not to proceed with the tests planned for January 9, 16 and 23.

"The board will now be consulting with member schools, and a further statement will be issued after that."