The rising number of children reaching school age is set to cause major financial headaches for education chiefs.
Latest census figures suggest an extra 200 four and five-year olds will need places in reception classes from September 2013.
The mini population bulge could see an additional five reception classes opened in Island primary schools.
That will mean a major shake-up of budgets at a time when all government departments are under pressure to reduce spending.
The news emerged yesterday (Monday) as DEC chief executive Stuart Dobson gave evidence to a Tynwald Select Committee reviewing the decision to end state funding of pre schools.
He also admitted the budget for nursery credit vouchers had already been breached.
So far credit worth £446,000 has been claimed, well above the £400,000 set aside to help parents 'buy' places for their children in the private sector.
Mr Dobson says the larger-than-expected school entry is going to be a tricky issue in the current financial climate:
Hooper: 'Cutting number of operations doesn't need political approval'
Loganair adds Belfast flights for Christmas and New Year
'Impossible' to calculate market value for affordable housing
Biosphere Awards 2024 celebrate sustainability champions
