SDLP Education Spokesperson Seán Rogers MLA has said that encouraging all forms of shared and integrated education should be a priority for the Department of Education.
Speaking during a debate on the issue in the Assembly today, Mr Rogers said: “There is a lot of great collaborative work going on between schools across the North. However, we can, and must, do much more to encourage all forms of shared education.
“Shared and integrated education offer a great opportunity to keep education alive, especially in rural communities. This can be a vital lifeline to schools amid a sea of cuts and closures.
“The SDLP believes it is perfectly possible for schools to provide a quality education without meeting the enrolment threshold if the school engages with other neighbouring schools. Not only is this a practical solution it can also help improve community cohesion in remote areas.
“It is important that the Minister ensures that the promotion of shared and integrated education in all varieties and forms is made a priority for the Department. It can inject life into struggling schools and sustain our rural communities,” added Mr Rogers.
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