AQW 48457/22-27

Mr Nick Mathison
Alliance Party
Strangford

Tabled Date: 11/06/2026
Answered On Date: 07/07/2026
Priority Written: No

Question:
To ask the Minister of Education for an update on (i) the action contained within his TransformED Delivery plan to develop a high-quality professional learning procurement framework for schools to supplement the core professional learning offer from the Education Authority; and (ii) any cost incurred as a result of this action.

Answer:

Following careful consideration and engagement with colleagues in the Education Authority, my Department has concluded that it is not necessary to proceed with the development of a professional learning procurement framework, as outlined in the TransformED Delivery Plan. It was recognised that such an approach could inadvertently constrain schools’ flexibility in selecting and sourcing professional learning that best reflects their needs.

This decision reflects the Department’s commitment to empowering schools through the Teacher Professional Learning (TPL) Fund, which provides them with the autonomy to select from a broad range of high-quality, evidence-informed professional learning opportunities. The normal procurement rules continue to apply to schools’ use of the TPL Fund.