§ Lord Hyltonasked Her Majesty's Government:
What consideration is being given to creating sixth form colleges in Northern Ireland to provide a range of well taught subjects, including vocational ones, sufficient for all aptitudes. [HL1363]
§ Baroness AmosThe Government have no plans to create sixth form colleges in Northern Ireland. The new post-primary arrangements being implemented in Northern Ireland will provide all post-16 pupils with access to a minimum of 27 courses, of which at least one-third must be vocational, through the entitlement framework. Arrangements for the provision of courses will be developed at local level by schools, FE colleges and their managing authorities collaborating jointly and taking account of the needs of pupils in the area.