Education Minister Paul Givan has confirmed that more than 300 schools, organised in 53 clusters across Northern Ireland, will receive up to £5,000 each to host Research-Informed Conferences during the 2026–27 academic year.

The initiative is part of the Department of Education's Making Best Practice, Common Practice programme within TransformED, aimed at strengthening the link between educational research and classroom practice so teachers can access and use high-quality evidence to improve outcomes for children and young people.

Paul Givan said: "I have committed to providing regular access to educational research to all teachers and I am pleased to see the positive response to this latest opportunity under the Making Best Practice Common Practice programme. Our schools have once again embraced this opportunity to share and apply research for the benefit of their pupils. "This continued investment reflects my commitment, through TransformED, to place high-quality teaching and learning at the centre of education reform. The conferences announced today will provide valuable opportunities for teachers and school leaders to engage with evidence, share expertise and strengthen professional learning across the education system."

Reflecting on participation across sectors, phases and regions, the Minister added: "The levels of collaborations across schools have been truly impressive, and the quality of applications has been consistently high. This demonstrates an innovative range of thematic approaches.

"I look forward to seeing the positive impact that this continued investment in professional learning will have on the lives of children and young people."

The programme underscores the Department's broader commitment to sustained, high-quality professional learning for teachers at every career stage.

A list of successful applicants is available on the Department's website: www.education-ni.gov.uk/publications/research-informed-conference-expression-interest-successful-schools-202627