AQW 42382/22-27 Written question to the Minister of Education
To ask the Minister of Education for an update on any work undertaken to (i) increase the number of undergraduate places for allied health professions; and (ii) establish protected education posts, as detailed in the SEN Reform Delivery Plan.
Asked by Nick Mathison MLA on 12 March 2026
- Answered
- Written
- Tabled
- 12 March 2026
- Answer due by
- 30 March 2026
- Answered
- 27 March 202615 days after tabling
- Department
- Department of Education
- Priority question
- No
Answer
The Minister for Health is responsible for the creation of Allied Health Professional (AHP) posts. However AHPs will play a key role in supporting special educational needs (SEN) transformation.
Working under the auspices of the Joint Health and Education Oversight Group, my department, the Department of Health and the Education Authority are in discussions regarding the deployment of AHPs, including Occupational Therapists, to support children with SEN in education settings.
Work will be undertaken in due course to increase the number of AHPs and protected posts, subject to additional budget being identified.