We are excited to be launching a new three-year Integrated Education support programme for schools considering acquiring Integrated status. We warmly invite you to explore this development opportunity for your school.
Surveys continue to show significant parental interest in accessing Integrated Education, as reflected in the recent Department of Education (DE) published Demand Report. Research with Transformed schools indicates that the process can support the development of pupils’ intercultural skills and may contribute to school improvement and longer-term sustainability.
The programme is being delivered by the Council for Integrated Education (NICIE) and the Education Authority (EA) with support from the Integrated Education Fund (IEF). Endorsed by DE, it is designed to support a group of schools to explore, and where appropriate, progress through a three-year process towards acquiring Integrated status:
2026/27 – Exploring Transformation and determining whether it is appropriate in your school’s context.
2027/28 – If your school decides to proceed, this year covers the statutory Transformation process, including a ballot of parents.
2028/29 – The school is supported to prepare for being an Integrated school, which will happen in 2029/30, subject to Ministerial approval.
DE is providing funding support for schools’ participation in the Programme. To apply for a place on the Programme, please complete the application form here – by the deadline of Friday 12th June at 5pm. Schools will be notified of the outcome as soon as possible thereafter.
For more information about the Transformation Programme, click here. To view the recently updated DE guidance, ‘Transforming Together’.
You are also welcome to register here to attend a Teams meeting to get more information and ask questions on Tuesday 26th May 3.30pm to 4.30pm or on Thursday 4th June 11am to 12 noon.
If you would prefer to have a conversation regarding exploring Integrated status for your school, please contact NICIE’s lead officer for Transformation, Lynn Johnston: ljohnston@nicie.org.uk Tel: 028 9694 4200 or EA via: SectoralSupport@eani.org.uk Tel: 028 9033 1714.
