To ask the Minister of Education to detail whether the bespoke regional programme for two to three year olds will (i) incorporate the Belfast Wide Early Years (BWEY) special educational needs programme; and (ii) include budget to ensure the continuation of BWEY programme into the 2025-26 financial year.

As per my previous answer to AQW 20500/22-27, subject to funding, the regional programme will be co-designed with Health officials, including the identification of appropriate eligibility criteria for the programme.

Timing of roll-out of any regional programme will be subject to a decision on my department’s bid to the NICS Transformation Fund, which is awaited. My department’s 2025-26 budget strategy process is currently ongoing. Continuation of the Belfast Wide Early Years (BWEY) pilot will be subject to budget and to robust evaluation of the pilot to date.