AQW 20607/22-27

Ms Kate Nicholl
Alliance Party
South Belfast

Tabled Date: 15/01/2025
Answered On Date: 22/01/2025
Priority Written: No

Question:
To ask the Minister of Education to detail any measures being taken to address transport challenges for rural schools accessing Dream Space at W5 LIFE.

Answer:

I fully recognise the significant educational value that learning experiences such as Dream Space bring to children and young people, offering excellent opportunities for schools to enhance their curriculum delivery. It is regrettable that, given the challenging budget circumstances, additional earmarked funding for transport to support school visits to such venues cannot be provided.

Nevertheless, I would like to highlight the many free online learning opportunities available to schools through Dream Space, including a wide range of professional learning programmes and resources to help teachers upskill in STEM and Digital Technology, as well as many online offerings for pupils. These resources can be used as teacher-led activities in the classroom or for independent learning. I strongly encourage all schools to make full use of these online facilities to enhance teaching and learning experiences.