AQW 22429/22-27

Ms Claire Sugden
Independent
East Londonderry

Tabled Date: 12/02/2025
Answered On Date: 18/02/2025
Priority Written: No

Question:
To ask the Minister of Education (i) for an update on his plans to introduce legislation to raise the compulsory school age in Northern Ireland to 18; and (ii) when the public consultation will be launched.

Answer:

I do not propose to increase compulsory school age to 18.

Work is on-going within my Department to scope proposals for legislation within this Assembly mandate which would require young people to continue their education or training until they are age 18. This will require Executive and Assembly approval. As part of this process, my officials will engage with a wide range of stakeholders. A public consultation is likely to take place this year.