Education Minister Paul Givan has officially launched the Education Authority's (EA) Controlled Schools' Unit (CSU). The new unit, established within the EA, represents the first stage of a two-phase process proposed by the Controlled Schools Taskforce to provide enhanced support and management for the sector.

The launch took place at Belfast Boys' Model School, where the Minister highlighted the importance of the unit for the 150,000 pupils attending controlled schools across Northern Ireland.

Speaking at the event, the Minister said: "The establishment of the CSU marks a significant step towards providing dedicated support to the largest and most diverse schools sector in Northern Ireland. Controlled schools are open to all, welcoming around 150,000 children and young people of all backgrounds. It is vital that they are put on a level position to other sectors and given the support they need and deserve."

Paul Close, the Programme Director for the EA Controlled Schools' Unit, explained that the unit aims to improve leadership and collaboration. He noted that over 250 school leaders and partner organisations assisted in defining the unit's priorities. Mr Close stated: "The Controlled Schools' Unit marks a major step forward in how we support Controlled schools. By working closely with school leaders and the Controlled Schools' Support Council (CSSC), we're building a stronger, more connected sector that delivers even better outcomes for children and young people. More than 250 school leaders and partner organisations have worked closely with us to shape the Unit's priorities and future direction."

The move was also welcomed by Mark Baker, Chief Executive of the Controlled Schools' Support Council (CSSC), who said:

"We welcome the Minister's endorsement of the Taskforce recommendation to establish the Controlled Schools' Unit, working collaboratively with CSSC. This is a very positive step for the controlled sector. CSSC looks forward to working with the CSU in the Education Authority to drive meaningful improvements for all controlled schools across Northern Ireland."

Concluding the launch, Paul Givan added: "The additional strategic support offered by the CSU will complement and build on the important work of the Controlled Schools' Support Council to advocate for the sector and support leaders in ethos and leadership. Today marks delivery of phase one of this process and is a significant step towards boosting support and championing our controlled school sector within Northern Ireland."