Northern Ireland has published its first Curriculum Framework for Initial Teacher Education, outlining the core knowledge, skills and practices expected of all new teachers. Education Minister Paul Givan announced the framework on 30 April, describing it as a significant step in shaping how student teachers are prepared for the classroom.

The new framework is intended to bring greater consistency across initial teacher education (ITE) programmes, improve classroom readiness, embed evidence-informed practice and align teacher preparation with wider education reform.

It is organised around five key areas that set out what beginning teachers should know and be able to do:

- Learning and development

- Pedagogy and assessment

- Curriculum

- Classroom environment and positive behaviour

- The teacher as a professional

Each area includes clear learning goals, essential knowledge for trainees, and expectations for classroom practice.

Paul Givan said: "This new framework lays the foundations for a modern, coherent and well‑aligned approach to teacher education. It will strengthen teaching across the education system."

He added: "By introducing a clear and consistent framework, we are ensuring that every student teacher follows a common pathway throughout their education. This is an important step for our teaching workforce and will help ensure the best possible education for children and young people. "This reform is a key element of my Department's TransformED strategy, which aims to build a world-class, equitable education system focused on high-quality teaching and learning."

The framework's development drew on fieldwork by Professor Daniel Muijs of Queen's University Belfast, international evidence on best practice in teacher education, and engagement with key stakeholders across the education system.

Welcoming the announcement, Professor Jonathan Hegarty, Principal of Stranmillis University College, and Professor Peter Finn, Principal of St Mary's University College, said: "Stranmillis University College and St Mary's University College have long and distinguished histories of excellence in teacher education, a tradition that continues to this day. Through the Transform ED strategy, the University Colleges have been involved in working with the Department of Education on a range of key initiatives. As the Northern Ireland Curriculum Framework for Teacher Education is introduced, we look forward to continuing this collaboration to ensure that our students continue to receive an outstanding education that fully prepares them for their vitally important roles as teachers in the modern classroom."

Introducing a core content framework for ITE is a key commitment within the Department of Education's TransformED strategy. The Curriculum Framework for Initial Teacher Education can be accessed at: www.education-ni.gov.uk/publications/northern-ireland-curriculum-framework-initial-teacher-education.