Legislation that will modernise the island’s education system is set to be introduced to the House of Keys tomorrow.
The Education (Amendment) Bill updates and strengthens the Education Act 2001, the island’s main education law.
Rather than replacing the whole Act, the government says its Bill “enhances it — adding new powers, clarifying responsibilities, and removing outdated provisions”.
It aims to benefit all children and young people by creating a more flexible, inclusive, and future-ready education system that meets the needs of today’s learners, families, and schools.
The amendments strengthen support for looked-after children, create alternative education pathways for pupils unable to attend mainstream school, introduce additional safeguarding measures, and give schools clearer powers to manage admissions in high-demand areas.
Daphne Caine, Minister for Education, Sport and Culture, said: “This legislation is about removing barriers and giving every child and young person the chance to thrive.
“By updating the law, we are putting in place the foundations of an education system that is agile, inclusive and centred around the needs of every child and young person.”