Committee Launches Inquiry into Shared and Integrated Education

The Committee for Education has just launched its inquiry into Shared and Integrated Education.

The inquiry will examine how Shared and Integrated Education are currently delivered across Northern Ireland. The inquiry will also consider whether there is a need for a formal, statutory definition of Shared Education and additionally, a legal obligation for its promotion and encouragement.

Chairperson of the Committee, Mervyn Storey MLA said: “Around two thirds of schools currently indicate that they participate in Shared Education programmes of various kinds. The Executive’s Programme for Government includes important commitments to increase this and facilitate greater sharing of facilities by schools.

“The Committee also recognises Integrated Education as an important part of the educational options available to schools, parents and pupils.  In order to assist in the formulation of good policy, the Committee wants to appreciate the context for both Shared and Integrated Education and understand the way forward.

"The Committee is very keen to hear from pupils, their parents, local schools and relevant representative organisations.  Members are particularly eager to receive submissions from school councils across the educational spectrum and will be undertaking special engagement events to facilitate this.”

ENDS