Givan launches consultation on new organisation to support controlled schools
Date published:
Education Minister Paul Givan has today launched a public consultation on proposals to establish a new organisation to support controlled schools across Northern Ireland.
The consultation seeks views on the role, structure and functions of the proposed new organisation before legislation is introduced in the Northern Ireland Assembly.
Commenting on the consultation, Paul Givan said:
“Controlled schools, as the largest and most diverse sector, play a distinctive role across our educational landscape. It is important that they have strong, effective and dedicated support in place to help them to continue to provide high quality support and experiences for children and young people.
“The Independent Review of Education, along with feedback from many school leaders, highlighted shortcomings in the current support arrangement for controlled schools. This was reinforced by the findings of the Controlled Schools’ Taskforce who recommended the establishment of a new organisation, alongside the immediate establishment of a new support unit within the EA.”
The Minister concluded:
“This consultation is an opportunity to help shape the future of support for controlled schools. The proposals are about ensuring every child and every school has access to the support they need. I encourage everyone with an interest in education — parents, teachers, governors and community members — to take part in this consultation. Your views will help us build a stronger, fairer education system.”
The Consultation will remain live until 11th December 2025.
To access the consultation and submit views, please visit the Departments website - https://www.education-ni.gov.uk/consultations/consultation-establishment-new-organisation-support-controlled-schools.
Notes to editors:
1. Strengthening support for controlled schools is an important step toward achieving the greater consistency and fairness envisioned by the Independent Review of Education.
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