A girl cries on learning that she has failed to win a place at the much-sought-after Suan Kularp school.

The summer vacation has begun, but popular secondary schools in Bangkok and elsewhere were packed yesterday with anxious parents and students taking part in a tense ritual that leaves some jubilant and many more in tears.

It's that time of the year again when Matthayom 1 students draw lots for admission to famous secondary schools where the demand for the seats far exceeds the number available.

The meeting hall at Suan Kularp Wittayalai Nontha-buri School was packed with students and parents waiting for the drawing of lots.

School director Suthisak Fuangkasem said that 491 students were eligible to draw lots, but since some had already passed the entrance test, only 334 showed up to vie for the remaining 200 seats.

He said the school had assigned officials to help students who missed out find alternative schools.

One of the lucky ones, Putthipan Nong-Keng, said it took so long for his name to be called that he had given up hope and was about to cry. "I don't know what I'm feeling now," said the 13-year-old. "I'm so happy - and today is also my birthday."

"It's sad that my son didn't make it, but I comforted him by telling him that there are still other schools," said the mother of an unlucky student, adding, "I will take him to apply at Triamudomsuk-sanomklao Nonthaburi School next."

At Bodindecha (Sing Singha Seni) School, students were asked to report at 8am for the drawing of lots at 9am. A total of 521 students were eligible to take part, but only 474 showed up to try for the 200 seats on offer.

When asked what happened to the 47 missing students, school director Amornrat Pinngern said, "The number of students might be less because some have gone to other schools that aren't as hard to get into as our school."

Thousands of parents waited for good news outside the school canteen, where the school set up a big screen television showing the draw live.  "I couldn't sleep last night, I really want my son to study here," said one parent.

It was all over in about 45 minutes, and the 274 students who missed out were either crying or in shocked silence. Among the latter was 13-year-old Silsupa Korkirdsantisuk, who came with her mother.

"I'm really sorry. I really wanted to study here," she said as her eyes filled with tears. However, she hadn't give up all hope, saying she would file a complaint like other students.

"It's near my house and it's the most perfect school for me," protested another unlucky student, 13-year-old Pimol Garnlertporntawee.

"We won't go to other schools, my niece must study here," her uncle insisted.

There was jubilation among the 200 students luck favoured. Boonkiet Kulsansumphan said he wanted his son to study at Bodindecha School because - besides being the best school - it was nearest to his house. "His brother's also studying here, and I wanted them both in same school. I feel really relieved," he said.

 "I'm so happy that I can get into this school - it's near my house and very famous," said 13 year-old Thanapat Lakpittayanon.

 "I'm really happy because it's a [high] standard school. All of my children studied here," his mother added.

"I have been dreaming for a long time that my son will study here because I really gave my heart to this school," said Jaruwan Jansakham, the mother of one of the lucky students.

She said she had made vows at various temples for her child to be admitted. "From now on I must fulfil all my vows," she added, her face running with tears.

Saijai Kirdmongkon,

Jakrapan Seebunruang

The Nation