Policy Forum for Northern Ireland

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Next steps for the education system in NI and priorities for the Independent Review of Education - education recovery in the context of the pandemic, the future shape and design of the school system, tackling inequality, funding, and governance

April 2022


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Format: DOWNLOADABLE PDF


This conference was a timely opportunity for key stakeholders and policy makers to discuss the next steps for the design and delivery of education in Northern Ireland, in the context of the wide-ranging Independent Review of Education.


Delegates examined the Review’s remit, its initial findings, and the key areas it should look at as it continues. It was an opportunity to offer feedback as it considered how education in Northern Ireland should be delivered in the 21st century.


We were pleased to be able to include a keynote session with the Independent Review’s Chair, Dr Keir Bloomer who will be outlining its initial findings - along with further keynote contributions from: Michele Corkey, Director of Education, Education Authority; Faustina Graham, Chief Inspector, Education Training Inspectorate (ETI); and Dr Amanda Watkins, Assistant Director, European Agency for Special Needs and Inclusive Education.


The agenda was structured to bring out latest thinking on:


  • the future of education in Northern Ireland - developing a shared vision of education, as well as options and issues for creating a single education system
  • education recovery in the context of the pandemic - lost learning during the pandemic, supporting students and addressing mental health concerns
  • the school system - examining its future shape and design, and exploring ways to tackle inequalities
  • supporting delivery - what is needed in terms of funding, governance, and provision for staff wellbeing
  • education standards - areas for improvement in Northern Ireland, and learning from best practice

The conference was an opportunity for stakeholders to consider the issues alongside key policy officials who attended from DAERA; the Department for the Economy; NIAO; CAFRE; DfE; and the IPO.



This on-demand pack includes

  • A full video recording of the conference as it took place, with all presentations, Q&A sessions, and remarks from chairs
  • An automated transcript of the conference
  • Copies of the slides used to accompany speaker presentations (subject to permission
  • Access to on-the-day materialfs, including speaker biographies, attendee lists and the agenda