AQW 14262/22-27

Ms Kate Nicholl
Alliance Party
South Belfast

Tabled Date: 02/09/2024
Answered On Date: 09/09/2024
Priority Written: No

Question:
To ask the Minister for the Economy to detail the progress that has been made on implementing the Developing a More Strategic Approach to 14 to 19 Education and Training - a Framework to Transform 14 to 19 Education and Training Provision.

Answer:

The 14-19 Framework is a joint endeavour between my Department and the Department of Education. The Minister for Education and I have met to discuss our approach to this work and our shared priorities, taking account of the current education and skills environment.

As a first step, we have prioritised Careers as a priority area for delivery and tasked officials from both of our Departments to produce a joint programme of work.

Post-school transition and provision for young people with Special Education Needs is also a priority area. A team is now in place and work is underway to scope the existing provision with a view to providing options to improve both access and outcomes for our young people with Special Educational Needs. Assessing the relevance and effectiveness of approaches, including legislative frameworks, in place in other jurisdictions will be an important aspect of this work.

This indicates our commitment to collaboration in the interests of our young people during this important phase of their lives. On the wider framework, the Minister for Education and I will be considering how best to prioritise the other elements, building on this collaborative approach and using insights from stakeholders on the ground.