01/04/2025
Alliance MLA Calls For Action On Integrated Education Strategy
Alliance Education spokesperson Michelle Guy MLA has called for the Education Minister to ensure his actions align with the newly launched Integrated Education Strategy, particularly in light of recent decisions regarding schools in North Down.
Speaking following the Department of Education's consultation launch, the Lagan Valley MLA emphasised the importance of an "excellent education system" that prioritises the needs of all young people, with integrated education playing a vital role.
"First and foremost, Alliance want to see an excellent education system, which puts the needs of all our young people at its core. Integrated Education is a key part of that," she stated.
Guy highlighted the Independent Review of Education's support for integrated education and its belief that increasing the number of integrated schools would benefit Northern Irish society. She also pointed to the "clear demand" for integrated education, particularly in North Down, which she said had not been adequately addressed by the Department, under DUP ministerial control since 2016.
While welcoming the consultation launch, Guy stressed the need for the Minister's approach to differ from his handling of North Down schools. "While the launch of this consultation is positive, and I welcome the move to have a better discussion around what integrated education is, the Education Minister’s approach to this issue must differ from his approach he took with schools in North Down, and his actions must align with the strategy," she said.
She clarified that integrated education extends beyond religious integration, encompassing the education of young people from diverse backgrounds. She also mentioned the importance of the make-up of the Board of Governors, and a detailed plan for increasing integration and understanding through faith, sport, language and more.
Guy expressed concern over the "oversubscribed" nature of integrated schools in certain areas, as outlined in the strategy, and questioned the Minister's decisions to block parental choice for schools in those areas to become integrated.
"As always, this is about action, not just words on a page, and that is what we need from the Minister and his department," she concluded.
Speaking following the Department of Education's consultation launch, the Lagan Valley MLA emphasised the importance of an "excellent education system" that prioritises the needs of all young people, with integrated education playing a vital role.
"First and foremost, Alliance want to see an excellent education system, which puts the needs of all our young people at its core. Integrated Education is a key part of that," she stated.
Guy highlighted the Independent Review of Education's support for integrated education and its belief that increasing the number of integrated schools would benefit Northern Irish society. She also pointed to the "clear demand" for integrated education, particularly in North Down, which she said had not been adequately addressed by the Department, under DUP ministerial control since 2016.
She clarified that integrated education extends beyond religious integration, encompassing the education of young people from diverse backgrounds. She also mentioned the importance of the make-up of the Board of Governors, and a detailed plan for increasing integration and understanding through faith, sport, language and more.
Guy expressed concern over the "oversubscribed" nature of integrated schools in certain areas, as outlined in the strategy, and questioned the Minister's decisions to block parental choice for schools in those areas to become integrated.
"As always, this is about action, not just words on a page, and that is what we need from the Minister and his department," she concluded.
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