Plans For Compulsory Education Or Training Consultation Launched

Education Minister Paul Givan has announced the launch of a public consultation on proposals that would require all young people in Northern Ireland to participate in education, apprenticeship, or training until the age of 18. The consultation aims to gather feedback on the potential impact of legislative changes on learners, schools, Further Education colleges, employers, training providers, and the voluntary and community sector.

Speaking at the launch, Minister Givan emphasised the potential benefits of increased investment in education. “Research shows that investment in education can deliver a better future for all. The vision is that by making sufficient investment in the right areas at the right time, a seamless lifelong education journey is provided for the learner that inspires; develops skills, abilities and talents; and celebrates each success,” he said.

While acknowledging that the majority of young people currently continue in education or training beyond the age of 16, the Minister highlighted that some, particularly vulnerable individuals, do not. “Regrettably, a young person’s background remains a key factor in whether they progress to post-16 education,” he stated.

The public consultation is intended to provide an opportunity for all stakeholders to contribute their perspectives. “With that in mind, the launch of this public consultation is an opportunity for those with an interest in this important area to contribute to the consultation. I am particularly interested in the views of young people,” Mr Givan added.

The proposed legislation is a direct outcome of the Independent Review of Education, published in December 2023, to which the Minister responded in October 2024. Mr Givan explained that the proposed changes aim to promote the value of continuous learning. “The proposed legislation will encourage all young people to recognise the benefits of lifelong learning. This could include education in school, a Further Education college, employment, apprenticeship, training or volunteering which enables young people to progress, attain and succeed.”

Furthermore, the legislation would place a responsibility on authorities to actively support and promote participation, as well as to establish systems for monitoring and reporting on young people who are not engaged in education or training. “This will enable support to be provided where and when needed which meets the individual needs of the young person,” the Minister noted.

Mr Givan was keen to clarify that the proposal does not involve raising the compulsory school leaving age, which will remain at 16. “This proposal is not about raising the compulsory age of school, which remains at 16. It is about incentivising and encouraging young people to recognise the benefits of learning throughout their life,” he said.

He concluded by underscoring the importance of post-16 learning in the current economic climate. “In a modern economy, it is in the young person’s own interests to continue in their education or training after the age of 16, as we need a workforce with high levels of skill and education. That is why I want to create a minimum offer for all young people, particularly those who are most vulnerable and ensure that they have equity of opportunity and a structured pathway of support and guidance.”

The consultation will run from 14 April to 4 July 2025 and can be accessed at the following link - consultations.nidirect.gov.uk/de/department-of-education-16-18-legislation-main/, together with a Child and Young Person’s version here - consultations.nidirect.gov.uk/de/department-of-education-16-18-legislation-children/. A copy of the Equality Impact Assessment can be found here – www.education-ni.gov.uk/publications/equality-impact-assessment-eqia-16-18-legislation.