At Kip, we hear a lot of talk amongst teachers and parents about the UK National Curriculum. Sue & Dave have dedicated this month’s blog to finding out a bit more about it; to help you understand the framework and how it affects your child.
What is the UK National Curriculum?
It’s a set of subjects and standards used by primary and secondary schools; enabling children to learn the same things. The national curriculum is broken down into key stages (depending on your child’s age), and maps out what schools should teach children in both primary and secondary schools. This includes the subjects that are taught and what standards children should be aiming for.
Is the UK National Curriculum being reviewed now?
The Government have recently announced that there will be an independent review to refresh the curriculum and make sure it meets the needs of every child and young person in the UK. The majority of the current national curriculum was introduced in September 2014; since then it has been updated multiple times. The review will encompass Key Stage 1 to Key Stage 5 (Infant to A Level).
Why is the UK National curriculum being reviewed?
The primary purpose is to ensure that the curriculum balances ambition, relevance, flexibility and inclusivity for all children and young people.
The aim of the review is to deliver:
- An excellent foundation in the core subjects of reading, writing and maths.
- A broad curriculum, so that children and young people can participate in subjects such as music, art, sport and drama, as well as vocational choices.
- A curriculum that ensures children and young people leave education at age 18, ready for life and work, building the knowledge, skills and attributes they need to thrive.
- A curriculum that reflects the issues and diversities in society, ensuring all children and young people are represented.
- An assessment system that captures the full strengths of every child and young person and the breadth of curriculum.
