Education Minister Paul Givan has invited teachers and school principals from across Northern Ireland to apply for a new drafting group tasked with redesigning the Religious Education (RE) curriculum.

The initiative aims to create a revised syllabus for students ranging from Foundation Stage through to Key Stage 4.

The review is a direct response to a Supreme Court judgment which found that the existing 20-year-old syllabus failed to present information in an "objective, critical and pluralistic manner." This overhaul is part of a broader reform of the Northern Ireland Curriculum.

The drafting group will consist of ten educators—five from the primary sector and five from post-primary—working under the guidance of Professor Noel Purdy OBE and Joyce Logue. Their responsibilities will include drafting the core syllabus, engaging with various stakeholders, and presenting the final proposal to the Department of Education.

Minister Paul Givan emphasised the importance of professional expertise in this reform: "It is essential that the new RE syllabus is developed by those who know our students best and who are experts in delivering the subject. I want teachers' experience, insight and creativity to be at the heart of this work. "This is a unique opportunity for teachers to influence curriculum reform, collaborate with peers and experts across the education system, and help prepare a syllabus that is rigorous, inclusive and equips our children and young people for future learning and citizenship.

"I hope teachers from across Northern Ireland will consider applying and playing their part in this important work."

Professor Noel Purdy added that the involvement of active teachers is vital for ensuring the new curriculum is "thoughtful, balanced and relevant" to a modern, diverse society.

"Teachers bring invaluable insight into how Religious Education is experienced in the classroom every day," said Professor Purdy. "Their expertise will be essential as we work together to develop a syllabus that is thoughtful, balanced and relevant to young people growing up in a modern and diverse society. I would encourage any teacher with a passion for RE to consider applying."

The expression of interest opens on 17 February and closes on 27 February 2026. Further information on the roles, responsibilities and practical arrangements can be found in the expression of interest booklet at www.education-ni.gov.uk/publications/review-religious-education-re-core-syllabus-drafting-group-expression-interest-booklet. The application form is available at consultations.nidirect.gov.uk/de/re-drafting-group/