The government’s review of the school curriculum and exams in England is a massive challenge for Becky Francis, its leader. Schools are facing difficulties with teacher recruitment and retention, as well as an inadequate Send system for children with special educational needs and disabilities. The goal is to improve teaching and learning without increasing expenses or workloads.
Ministers are looking for evolution rather than revolution in the curriculum. A broader curriculum is important, with a focus on arts and sports. Primary schools should balance phonics with other literacy learning methods. Moving away from a linear assessment model towards a more varied approach is also necessary. Speaking skills are gaining importance in the curriculum.
As the consultation opens, different groups will push for the inclusion of various subjects such as media studies, food and nutrition, financial education, and more. There is a risk of the curriculum becoming overstuffed, so slimming it down to essentials could give schools and teachers more flexibility. This approach aligns with progressive educational values but comes with risks related to standardization and accountability.
Becky Francis aims to make the curriculum and assessment more inclusive to benefit working-class children. Schools should become more welcoming and supportive for children with special needs. Prioritizing vocational alternatives to A-levels and practical GCSEs could be beneficial. However, schools alone cannot address the challenges posed by inadequate housing, diet, employment, and household income. Poverty remains a significant obstacle for educational reform.
In conclusion, the curriculum reform in England is a complex and challenging task. It requires balancing breadth with flexibility, inclusivity, and the needs of a diverse range of students. While there are risks involved, the goal is to create a curriculum that supports all children in their educational journey. Prof Francis and other reformers are dedicated to making schools better equipped to address the needs of all students, despite the obstacles they may face.
