Education Minister Paul Givan is calling on teachers across Northern Ireland to help develop a new Religious Education syllabus for pupils from Foundation Stage to Key Stage 4.
Expressions of interest are now open for teachers and principals from primary and post-primary schools to join a drafting group that will play a central role in designing the revised core RE curriculum.
The review follows a Supreme Court judgment that concluded the current syllabus does not convey information in an objective, critical and pluralistic manner. The existing syllabus is nearly 20 years old, and the review aligns with wider reform of the Northern Ireland Curriculum.
Inviting applications from primary and post-primary teachers, Paul Givan said: “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.”
Up to ten teachers, five from primary and five from post-primary, will be appointed to the drafting group, which will work under the leadership of Professor Noel Purdy OBE and Joyce Logue. The drafting group will lead the development and drafting of a revised core syllabus, contribute to stakeholder engagement and be responsible for presenting a draft syllabus to the Department.
Commenting on the recruitment for the drafting group, Professor Noel Purdy said: “Teachers bring invaluable insight into how Religious Education is experienced in the classroom every day. 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 https://www.education-ni.
