Education Minister Paul Givan has hosted a major conference in Belfast, bringing together over 600 school leaders to discuss the ongoing 'TransformED NI' strategy aimed at reforming Northern Ireland's education system.

The 'TransformED School Leaders' Conference' will focus on key areas within the strategy, including curriculum development, assessment methods, accountability, school improvement, and professional learning for educators.

Speaking at the event, Minister Givan said: "On the 11th of March, I launched the TransformED strategy, and just last week, a Delivery Plan that will turn that ambition into action. Today's conference provides an opportunity to engage with school leaders and to talk about what TransformED means for our schools and for the future of our children." 

He emphasised the foundational role of education: "Education is the foundation of everything we aspire to be as a society. It shapes our economy, our communities and our shared future. When we get education right, we unlock opportunities for every child, we close the gaps of disadvantage and we build a prosperous, inclusive, and united future." 

"That is why TransformED isn't just a strategy—it's a promise," the Minister continued. "A promise to every child that they will have access to a world-class education. A promise to every teacher and school leader that you will be supported, valued and empowered. A promise to every parent that their child's capabilities will be nurtured, no matter their circumstances." Acknowledging existing pressures, Paul Givan stated: "Our education system has been under considerable stress for a sustained period and I recognise the challenges that our teachers and school leaders face daily. My goal is to reform and revitalise our education system, to invest meaningfully in our educators and to ensure that those who shape the future are themselves valued and sustained." 

He stressed the importance of ambition: "Investing in education means investing in knowledge; in giving every child an opportunity to thrive; in promoting creativity and improving well-being. It is the most important investment we can make in our future. We must therefore be ambitious for every child and bold for our plans for reform and ensure our education system is world leading - excellent, equitable, inclusive and able to meet the needs of all children and young people in an ever-changing world."

Throughout the conference, delegates will hear from an international panel of education experts. These include:

• Lucy Crehan, who will share initial findings from her Strategic Review of the Northern Ireland Curriculum.

• Daisy Christodoulou, discussing the importance of high standards, knowledge in education, and how assessment can drive improvement.

• Tim Oates, on effective accountability and its role in maintaining education quality.

• Bradley Busch, highlighting the significance of an evidence-informed education system.

• Hardip Begol, sharing lessons from the 2014 curriculum reform in England.

• Dr Nina Hood, explaining how to ensure evidence informs policy, drawing on her experience in New Zealand.

• Harold Hislop, presenting on the importance of investing in teachers' professional development.