Overview

Minister’s Foreword

This consultation proposes legislation for all learners to participate in education, apprenticeship or training until age 18. It also explores how it will impact schools, Further Education colleges, employers, training providers and the voluntary and community sector.

Research shows that investment in education can deliver a better future for all. If sufficient investment is made in the right areas at the right time, the vision is that it will provide a seamless lifelong education journey that inspires the learner to develop skills, abilities and talents and celebrates each success. Young people will receive integrated care and education from their earliest years. Learners will be equipped to contribute fully to the economy. There will be early and effective support for those who need it, when they need it. Whilst opportunities to re-skill will be available when necessary, by reducing the requirement for longer-term interventions at a later stage, additional costs can be avoided and potential barriers for learners can be decreased.

The proposed legislation stems from the Independent Review of Education which was published on 13 December 2023 and to which I responded on 21 October 2024.

I endorse and commend the Panel’s vision for education excellence. It is a vision for a well-designed, efficient and adequately funded education system that continues to provide choice, is inclusive and encourages collaboration over competition. A system that will offer greater opportunities for young people from different communities to learn together.

To borrow from the review report, “Education is the greatest investment any society makes in its own future. Responsible citizenship, prosperity and fulfilled lives depend on it”.

Most children and young people currently remain in education and training until age 18 but some young people, particularly some of our most vulnerable, do not. Regrettably, a young person’s background remains a key factor in whether they progress to post-16 education.

Building upon the “TransformED NI” publication which I announced on 11 March 2025, this consultation seeks views on legislation to provide for all learners to remain in education, apprenticeship or training until age 18.

In a modern economy, it is in the young person’s own interests to continue in their education or training after the age of 16, as we need a workforce with high levels of skill and education. That is why I want to create a minimum offer for all young people and ensure equity of opportunity and a structured pathway of support and guidance.

I encourage all those with an interest in this important area to contribute to the consultation. I am particularly interested in the views of young people.

Thank you for taking the time to do so.

Paul Givan MLA

Minister of Education

Why your views matter

Your views matter and want to hear your thoughts of the pros or cons of the proposed legislation. The means of fulfilling this legislative duty by young people is broad and can be achieved through education in school, FE college, employment, training, apprenticeship or volunteering.