To ask the Minister of Education how he plans to incorporate the skills needs within our economy, identified by the Northern Ireland Skills Barometer 2022-23, in his review of the school curriculum.

The review being undertaken independently by Lucy Crehan will make a series of policy recommendations regarding the purpose, design, specification and implementation of the Northern Ireland Curriculum.

The review will of course take account of a wide range of research, including the Northern Ireland Skills Barometer. To date, Lucy Crehan has engaged with business leaders including with those from the Northern Ireland Skills Council, the Institute of Directors and the Northern Ireland Chamber of Commerce. She has also met with Ulster University Economic Policy Centre, specifically in relation to the Skills Barometer.

As highlighted in the Skills Barometer there will be growth opportunities over the next 10 years across a range of sectors and occupations – with a focus predominantly on higher level skills and STEAM subjects. It is vital that we support as many young people as possible to reach the education and qualification levels that will offer viable and sustainable opportunities in our emerging labour market.