Northern Ireland Raises Education Age to 18

Education Minister Paul Givan has announced plans to legislate for young people in Northern Ireland to remain in education or training until the age of 18, responding to the Independent Review of Education’s recommendations. This proposal aims to create equity of opportunity for all young people, particularly the most vulnerable, as 7% of those aged 16-24 are currently not in education, employment, or training (NEET). Givan emphasized the need for a comprehensive review of the curriculum and qualifications to ensure they are accessible and valuable, reflecting a commitment to improving educational outcomes. The review identified significant funding shortfalls, including a £155 million annual gap per pupil compared to England and Wales. If approved, the changes would not simply raise the school leaving age but allow for continued education through various pathways, including apprenticeships. This initiative aligns with practices in other parts of the UK, where education is mandatory until 18.