Exemptions: How Similar Can My Applications Be? (Can I use one as a template for another?)

FAQ: "I'm writing applications for more than one child. Do they have to be totally different, or can I just change parts of the first one for the next child?" 

Your applications do not need to be completely different for each child. After all, teachers don't have to have completely different plans for each child in their class! However, you do need to provide some evidence you are taking into consideration the individual needs of each student. Whether that means they are working at different levels in core subjects so using a different grade/year level of program, or that you are setting some differing assignments in family unit studies in accordance with their abilities, or one is learning piano while another is into dance, or what have you,  will depend on your children, their ages, interests and needs.

​After you've written the first application, just save an extra copy, use the Replace function to change the name throughout (if you're written it in Word which makes this so much easier, otherwise you'll have to do it manually), and then go through and edit the parts that need modifying for the next child - if the children are fairly close in age this is likely to be primarily English and Math, then Science and Social Studies depending on your planned approach, and the rest is most likely just about individual interests where they apply. You also must have a different Topic Plan for each child. If they are more disparate in age, then the changes may be more significant.

If you are writing an application for, say, twins, you may not be sure how to personalise the applications at all. Do try and think of at least some areas where you can add comments about differing abilities or interests. Eg one might be particularly strong in spelling while the other really enjoys creative writing. You could comment on these, also indicating how you will continue to encourage them in these things. Or they might both like woodwork, but be keen on building some different projects. 

With children who are twins or very close in age, you might also consider a combined application. For more on that option, read THIS. 

General application hints:

• You do not have to use the Ministry's form to write the application - though it is recommended you use Section One of it. 
• For the rest, it's often easier/better to write it in Word or similar. This gives you better control over formatting, avoids the tech meltdowns the Ministry form often has, and makes it easier to change out additional copies for the next child. You would then just attach this separate document along with Section One in an email to send to the Ministry (no need to insert it into their form at all)
• I have a guide to walk you through the application requirements and help you write your own, including a template you can use. See HERE 

A summary of what should be different in each application:

• Child's name (and pronouns where applicable)
• Special Learning Needs where applicable
• English and Math program if they are of different ages/stages in their learning
• Any other graded program content if not working at the same level
• Info about individual interests, special abilities, or perhaps weaknesses you are working on
• The Topic Plan - use a different topic for each child's application, even if you intend to do them all together

Note: the above also applies where you have previously gained an exemption for one child, and are now doing an application for another child. The Ministry will compare your new application to previous ones, so you do need to make sure it is suitably personalised, as above, but can still use your older one as a template. Also, depending how long ago your last application was, you should check the current application forms to make sure there are not any new requirements you're not aware of.