AQW 53733/22-27 Written question to the Minister of Education

To ask the Minister of Education to detail any ways in which his Department will ensure that professional autonomy of teachers is protected with the implementation of Curriculum 2028.

Asked by Nick Mathison MLA on 5 October 2026

  • Answered
  • Written
Tabled
5 October 2026
Answer due by
20 October 2026
Answered
13 October 20268 days after tabling
Department
Department of Education
Priority question
No

Answer

The proposed Northern Ireland Curriculum 2028 provides a common minimum entitlement for all learners by setting out the knowledge, skills and understanding that pupils should develop. This is intended to provide greater clarity and consistency in what is taught across schools.

Within this framework, teachers will continue to exercise professional judgement in planning and delivering learning to meet the needs of their pupils. While the curriculum is clearer about what pupils are entitled to learn, schools and teachers will retain flexibility in how learning is organised and delivered. Implementation guidance and resources will be developed to support teachers and will complement, rather than prescribe, classroom practice.

Official sources