Review of the Northern Ireland Curriculum

The terms of reference for the review are below:-

• Strategic Review of NI Curriculum - Terms of Reference

The final report, “A Foundation for the Future: Developing Capabilities Through a Knowledge-Rich Curriculum in Northern Ireland”, was published on 3 June in three parts, as follows:

• Five Principles for a New Curriculum in Northern Ireland
• Summary Report
• Full Report 

The report included two appendices that provided an analysis of the submissions received and evidence provided during focus groups and engagements; and the responses from the teacher survey.

• Appendix I:  Summary of stakeholder engagement and analysis of recurring themes
• Appendix II: Survey analysis report 

The findings of the Strategic Review of the Northern Ireland Curriculum were published at an event at the Riddell Hall, Belfast. The launch included a speech from the Education Minister Paul Givan:

• Education Minister speech

The Department’s response to the findings and recommendations of the Strategic Review of the Northern Ireland Curriculum can be found here :

• Response by the Department of Education to the Strategic Review of the Northern Ireland Curriculum | Department of Education

The response considers the 21 recommendations made by Lucy Crehan within her report of 3 June 2025, entitled “A Foundation for the Future: Developing Capabilities Through a Knowledge-Rich Curriculum in Northern Ireland”.  

The recommendations primarily focus on the need for a new curriculum framework in Northern Ireland and the appropriate approach to delivering reform.

Curriculum Reform is a key component in the TransformED Strategy

• Find out more about the Curriculum Reform Programme