Ulster Unionist Education Spokesperson Jon Burrows MLA has welcomed progress on proposals to strengthen support for the controlled education sector but warned that several issues must be carefully addressed as legislation moves forward.

Ulster Unionist Education Spokesperson Jon Burrows MLA said:

“Today is an important step in recognising the long‑standing challenges faced by the controlled sector, the largest in Northern Ireland and the clear mandate from the consultation for stronger, dedicated support. The overwhelming backing for a new statutory organisation to provide focused governance, advocacy, and school improvement is encouraging, and it is right to acknowledge the good intentions behind this.

“However, two key points require careful handling as these proposals advance. First, controlled schools already function in many respects as de facto integrated institutions, serving communities across Northern Ireland and often embodying inclusive practices without formal designation. I visit many controlled schools regularly and I am impressed by their delivery of true inclusion without fanfare or labels. Any new structures must avoid any perception of ‘nationalisation’, which detracts from the reality that many controlled schools are diverse and inclusive.

“Second, the Minister refers to developing the controlled sector's ‘unique ethos, vision and values.’ This is a sensitive area pending full departmental guidance following the recent Supreme Court ruling on religious education and collective worship in controlled schools, which found aspects of the current approach unlawful for lacking objectivity, criticality, and pluralism. I said at the outset of this ruling that we must first have absolute clarity and assurance that controlled schools can continue to uphold their historic Christian based ethos within the legal requirement for denominational RE, without undue restriction.

“Finally, what principals and teaching staff need most is delivery and practical support. School buildings are not being maintained when problems arise; the inflated cost of procured maintenance and equipment is devastating school budgets; too few teachers feel supported in dealing with the small minority of disruptive pupils; and the pace of consultations and change is currently overwhelming. New structures are not a panacea; leadership, listening, and delivery are required.

“The Ulster Unionist Party will scrutinise the legislation to ensure these concerns are fully addressed, protecting the sector's distinctive character while delivering the improvements all schools deserve, not only in governance structures but also in day to day support and delivery.”