To ask the Minister of Education whether the Education Sustainability Taskforce will be exploring any recommendations from the Independent Review of Education regarding area planning.

The overarching objective of the Taskforce for Future Financial Stability of Education (the Taskforce) is to achieve financial sustainability for the EA and thereby the education sector as a whole, while supporting improvements to services. It will not directly lead on recommendations from the Independent Review of Education regarding area planning, including the recommendation 20 to right-size the schools estate.

The Independent Review of Education highlighted a need to develop a new approach to Area Planning.

I agree that revised arrangements are needed to reconfigure the current network of schools to create thriving, sustainable schools that support higher standards of education and promote inclusion for all children and young people.

Depending on local circumstances, the way forward in local communities may include rationalisation, amalgamation, right-sizing of schools or innovative solutions to ensure continuity of provision.