The Department of Education has today published revised guidance
on the Transformation process for schools to move to Integrated
status.
The new Transforming Together guidance explains clearly how
schools must comply with the statutory definition of Integrated
Education by demonstrating that they will educate together pupils
of different cultures and religious beliefs and of none,
including reasonable numbers of both Protestant and Catholic
children, as well as pupils from different socio‑economic
backgrounds and abilities.
Speaking during a visit to Hazelwood Integrated College,
Education Minister said: “Integrated Education
is a key element of a sustainable and high-quality education
system in Northern Ireland.
“The guidance published today reflects significant developments
in recent years, including the commencement of the Integrated
Education Act 2022. Transforming Together outlines the
principles that underpin the statutory definition of Integrated
Education and sets out the key stages of the Transformation
pathway, which offers an established and structured route to
becoming an Integrated school.”
The Minister concluded: “I am confident that Transforming
Together will assist and support informed decision making
throughout the process for schools that wish to explore
Transformation. A wide range of advice and support will continue
to be available from my Department and from our education
partners.”
The Transforming Together guidance is available on the DE website
at https://www.education-ni.gov.uk/publications/transforming-together-understanding-pathway-integrated-education
Further information is also included in a Written Ministerial
Statement, available at https://www.education-ni.gov.uk/publications/written-ministerial-statement-transforming-together
