Understanding the primary and secondary curriculum in England: A guide for parents
In education we often talk about the importance of following the National Curriculum, but what does that mean?
The National Curriculum for England sets out the framework for what primary and secondary schools in England teach.
Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland each have their own national curriculum so make sure to check the correct curriculum for you!
The curriculum covers various subjects and sets the standards for the knowledge, skills, and understanding children should acquire at different stages across the country. It determines the content of what will be taught and sets attainment targets for learning. It also determines how performance will be assessed and reported.
English state schools are required to teach the National Curriculum unless they are free schools or academies, which still have to teach a ‘broad and balanced’ programme of study including English, maths, science and religious education.
The National Curriculum is regularly reviewed to ensure that it continues to meet the changing needs of pupils and society.
The curriculum is organised into key stages:
Early years (Ages 3-5): Assessment of pupils’ starting points in language, communication, literacy and maths and teacher assessments
Key Stage 1 (Ages 5-7): National tests in English reading and maths. Teacher assessments in maths, science, and English reading and writing, plus phonics screening check in Year 2
Key Stage 2 (Ages 7-11): National tests in English reading, maths, and grammar, punctuation and spelling. Teacher assessments in English writing and science plus multiplication tables check in Year 4
Key Stage 3 (Ages 11-14): Classroom assessments done by teachers with frequent reporting to parents
Key Stage 4 (Ages 14-16): Includes GCSEs or equivalent qualifications in various subjects.
Post-16 Education: Sixth Form or College for students aged 16-18, pursuing A-levels, vocational qualifications, or apprenticeships.
In KS3, children have to study 12 compulsory subjects – English, maths and science (known as the core subjects), computing, PE and citizenship (known as the foundation subjects), at least one out of history, geography, modern foreign languages, and design and technology, art and design and music.
In KS4, the core subjects of English, maths and science, remain compulsory, with all students taking these subjects for GCSE in these subjects. For science, students can take single, double or triple science.
Confusingly, each of these incorporates all three subjects of biology, physics and chemistry but double science counts as two GCSEs and triple as three. Only the most able students take triple.
It’s important to remember that different exam boards at GCSE will cover slightly different content with the curriculum, so you should always know which exam board you or your student will be studying.
It is compulsory for students in England to remain in full-time education until they are 18.
Now we’ve covered the basics of the Nation Curriculum in England, here are our tips for helping to understand it further:
Start by familiarising yourself with your school's website or contacting the school directly for curriculum information. Schools often provide curriculum outlines and information on subject choices and assessments.
Use government resources like the Department for Education's website, which offers detailed information about the national curriculum, including guidelines and documents outlining what is taught at each key stage.
Regularly engage with subject teachers during parents’ meetings or through direct communication. This allows you to gain insights into your student’s progress, subject choices, and assessments.
Stay informed about any changes or reforms in the curriculum through educational news outlets, government updates, or school announcements.
Seek supplementary resources that are aligned with the curriculum to aid your understanding and support your teenager's learning at home. This might include textbooks, online resources, or educational programs.
Understanding the national curriculum enables parents and guardians to actively engage with their student's education, fostering a supportive environment for learning both inside and outside the classroom. By staying informed, communicating with teachers, and encouraging a positive attitude towards education, you can play a significant role in their childrens’ educational journey!
For more information or to find out how we can help you or your student, speak to us today by visiting https://edubridge.org.uk/contact-us !
