AQW 1175/16-21

Mr Stewart Dickson
Alliance Party
East Antrim

Tabled Date: 14/06/2016
Answered On Date: 21/06/2016
Priority Written: No

Question:
To ask the Minister of Education to outline the action he plans to take in response to the recent report from the United Nations Committee on the Rights of the Child, which condemns academic selection in Northern Ireland and calls for the Executive to actively promote a fully integrated education system.

Answer:

I am committed to respecting and progressing the rights of children and young people and it is important that a collective approach across Executive Departments is taken when considering UNCRC recommendations.

On the issue of selection, I have made it clear that I support the right of schools to select on the basis of academic ability. I will be discussing this issue with a wide range of stakeholders and will want to consider very carefully how any changes might be taken forward. Shared education policy sits within a broader education policy framework designed to improve educational outcomes for young people and this will be given due regard.

I am also awaiting receipt of a detailed report on Integrated Education, which I will also be considering.