Education minister seeks Tynwald support for plan on schools, curriculum, and learner support

However, there progress to the Castle Rushen High School project remains vague

The education, sport and culture minister is urging Tynwald to back her department’s latest plan, outlining key goals and priorities for the year ahead.

Daphne Caine describes the plan as a commitment to “lifelong learning and development opportunities” and highlights pledges to review the core curriculum, assess school building provisions, and enhance support for learners with additional and complex needs.

The department also aims to introduce targeted initiatives to engage young carers and looked-after children in sports and will launch new funding streams to support grassroots arts.

DESC has reaffirmed its dedication to capital projects, including a new STEM block at QEII, and developments at Castle Rushen High School and Henry Bloom Noble Primary School.

However, progress on the new Castle Rushen High School remains uncertain.

While the previous minister promised completion by 2030 as part of a 'masterplan', it is unclear if this timeline still stands.

All schools are expected to undergo inspections by external auditors, Tribal, by July 2026, following the first evaluations in January 2024.

The department, which employs over 2,500 people across teaching, leisure, and civil service roles, says its efforts aim to benefit learners and communities Island-wide.

Members voted to receive the report.