AQW 49026/22-27

Ms Kellie Armstrong
Alliance Party
Strangford

Tabled Date: 18/06/2026
Answered On Date: 03/07/2026
Priority Written: No

Question:
To ask the Minister of Education to detail any support given to education sectors to provide anti-racism awareness for staff and pupils.

Answer:

The Department recognises the vital role of education in promoting inclusion, respect and mutual understanding, and is committed to supporting the education sector to address racism and promote diversity among both staff and pupils.

Support is provided through guidance, professional learning and the sharing of good practice to strengthen staff confidence and capability in this area. This includes a focus on anti‑racism, equality, diversity and inclusion, helping ensure that teachers and youth practitioners are equipped to create inclusive environments and respond effectively to issues as they arise.

Schools are encouraged to deliver age‑appropriate learning that values diversity and challenges prejudice, including racism. This is reinforced through the draft Curriculum Framework, currently out for consultation, where the proposed Personal, Social, Civic and Careers (PSCC) area places a strong emphasis, from Foundation Stage onwards, on diversity, inclusion and respect for different cultures and identities.

In addition, the youth sector plays an important complementary role by delivering programmes that promote good relations, cultural awareness and inclusion, enabling young people to explore and challenge racism in a safe and constructive way.