EA Professional Learning Programme 2026-27

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In a rapidly evolving educational landscape, high-quality professional learning and development are essential to ensuring continuous improvement and achieving the best possible outcomes for all children and young people.

The Department of Education’s TransformED Strategy NI and the SEN Reform Agenda clearly articulate the central role of professional learning in driving educational excellence, strengthening leadership, and improving outcomes across the system. As the Education Authority, we are committed to supporting all staff to develop the knowledge, skills and confidence required to meet these ambitions.

This Professional Learning Programme reflects a whole-organisation approach, bringing together a comprehensive range of development opportunities from across the Education Authority. It is designed to support staff in all roles — those working directly in schools and educational settings, alongside colleagues across corporate and support services — recognising that collective capacity and collaboration are critical to achieving sustained improvement.

The programme aims to build capability at every level of the system, from those at the early stages of their careers to experienced leaders, and to foster a culture of professional learning that is collaborative, responsive and focused on impact. By engaging with these opportunities, staff will strengthen their professional practice and contribute to a shared commitment to improving experiences and outcomes for children and young people.

This brochure provides a guide to the current professional learning offer and has been designed as a dynamic resource, evolving in response to emerging priorities and identified needs across the organisation.

I would like to thank all staff for their continued commitment to professional learning and for the vital role they play in supporting children, young people, schools and communities across Northern Ireland.