The Education Authority (EA) has today (Thursday 10 September 2026) launched 'Operational Plan 3: 2026-27', which sets out key area planning activity to provide a network of sustainable schools.
The Plan aims to address key priorities in primary, special and post-primary education, focusing on meeting the increasing demand for Special Educational Needs (SEN) and sustainability.
Developed collaboratively by local Area Planning Local Groups* the plan covers the period from 1 September 2026 to 31 August 2027. The Plan responds to projected changes in Northern Ireland's pupil population, which is projected to decrease overall by 19% over the next 10 years. On the converse, demand for SEN places is projected to increase by over 43% over the next 10 years.
Director of Education for the EA Seamus Bradley said that in line with the Minister of Education’s and Department of Education Policy, Operational Plan 3 will continue the work of the previous Operational Plan in planning for SEN and addressing
sustainability.
“‘Operational Plan 3 - 2026-27’ supports the Programme for Government 2024-2027 and the Department of Education’s SEN Reform Agenda, which outlines the need to plan for future Special Needs provision in a coherent and measured way.”
Operational Plan 3: 2026-27 also focuses on providing a network of viable and sustainable schools - particularly at primary - that are of the right type, the right size, located in the right place, at the right time.
EA and the Council for Catholic Maintained Schools (CCMS), alongside sectoral partners, are keen to explore options and solutions with schools during the life span of this Plan to continue the process of shaping our educational landscape.
Seamus added: “I would ask that schools, families and communities join us on this journey and engage in this important work to achieve effective and sustainable solutions for future provision, which will deliver the best educational outcomes for all
children and young people”.
EA’s Operational Plan 3: 2026-27 and the Strategic Plans are available on the EA website Education Authority Northern Ireland Area Planning What is area planning? | Education Authority Northern Ireland
*Area Planning Local Groups include the Education Authority, Council for Catholic Maintained Schools, Catholic Schools’ Trustee Service, Comhairle na Gaelscolaíochta, Controlled Schools’ Support Council, Governing Bodies Association, Northern Ireland Council for Integrated Education and Transferor Representatives’ Council and representatives from the Further Education sector.