DESC presents 2025-26 Department Plan to Tynwald

Document outlines focus on improving literacy, strengthening inclusion, modernising the curriculum and progressing major capital projects

The Department of Education, Sport and Culture has presented its 2025–2026 plan to Tynwald, setting out its priorities across schools, sport, youth services and culture.

The document outlines a continued focus on improving literacy, strengthening inclusion, modernising the curriculum and progressing major capital projects.

Digital learning forms a prominent part of the plan, with further development of teacher training in digital technologies and work on how artificial intelligence can be used to support teaching and learning.

AI is identified as an emerging area schools want guidance on, following early training delivered to digital leads.

Inclusion remains a central theme, with a full review of Additional Educational Needs due to begin, and further rollout of Autism Education Trust training across schools.

DESC says early intervention programmes for vulnerable learners, including young carers and looked-after children will be expanded, and the Outdoor Learning Centre will move into its next phase of redevelopment.

Three major building schemes - Castle Rushen High School, Henry Bloom Noble Primary School and a new STEM block at QEII - remain key priorities.

A building utilisation review has set capacity levels for all primary schools, and condition surveys across the estate have been completed.

The plan also emphasises employability and post-16 pathways, including stronger links with employers, sustainability skills in apprenticeships, and expanded careers education.

Technical upgrades at the Gaiety Theatre, improvements across Villa Gaiety venues and preparations for the Year of the Manx Language 2026 also feature.

In its foreword, Minister Daphne Caine says: "Investing in education, sport, youth services, culture and the arts is vital to building a vibrant, inclusive and sustainable future for our Island."

Douglas Central MHK Chris Thomas says there are some notable staffing changes: