T7. Mrs Dodds asked the Minister, given that many people are concerned that the controlled sector is disadvantaged in that it does not have a specific body to look after its needs and given that the independent review of education recommended that, at the very least, there should be a function within EA to do that in a separate directorate, whether he will give an update on where that sits. (AQT 447/22-27)

The Member has articulated the issues well, and I agree with her entirely. Therefore, recognising the concerns that were highlighted by the independent review panel, I am committed to ensuring that the controlled sector is given the support that it requires. I have asked officials, working with the Education Authority and the Controlled Schools' Support Council, to undertake some initial analysis to help me determine how best to proceed. I expect to receive that advice shortly, after which I will bring forward proposals outlining how I plan to address the findings of the independent review. I assure the Member that, while that is a priority area for me, it is important to take time to ensure that the solutions that we put in place are effective and capable of delivering real change.

Thank you, Minister. Will it require legislation to create a separate body for the controlled sector? Is that, potentially, in the long run, the only way forward to ensure that there is equity between all education sectors?

One of the first steps that can be taken is for a specific directorate to be created in the Education Authority, because it is the managing authority for controlled schools. The EA has that particular function. It is not the managing authority for all schools. Members will know that CCMS is the managing authority for the Catholic maintained sector. Then, we have other sectors that exist for the various needs in the education system, but controlled schools sit within the remit of the EA as the managing authority. I want to see that change; I want to have a managing authority for controlled schools.

Members will know from their experience in their constituencies — certainly, I do — of the frustration in many controlled schools at the lack of support that, they feel, exists when it comes to dealing with issues. It is not acceptable to me that the controlled sector does not get the support that is required. I am determined that change will happen in that area.