The government has unveiled the most significant alterations to the educational curriculum in more than ten years. Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson has announced a comprehensive overhaul of the school curriculum to equip children for a rapidly evolving world.
Phillipson emphasized the importance of addressing online “dark forces” and enhancing media literacy to help students identify fake news. The curriculum revamp will include a focus on digital literacy and an updated computing program to cultivate essential tech skills for the future.
In addition, there will be a renewed emphasis on art education, with Phillipson advocating for broader access to the arts for all students, not just a select few. These changes follow the Curriculum and Assessment Review led by Professor Becky Francis and are set to be fully implemented for the first time in September 2028.
Among the key changes, primary school students will receive instruction on recognizing fake news and various forms of misinformation, particularly in online environments. Financial literacy will also be integrated into the curriculum to empower young individuals to make informed decisions about money management.
The government’s response to the curriculum review highlights a commitment to promoting citizenship education, including topics such as financial literacy, media literacy, climate change, democracy, and law at the primary education level. The aim is to ensure that young people understand the democratic process and are equipped to tackle global challenges like climate change.
Furthermore, the government plans to eliminate the English baccalaureate in favor of offering a broader range of subjects in arts, humanities, and languages alongside core subjects. Changes to assessment frameworks like Progress 8 and Attainment 8 are also in the works to provide more flexibility and encourage participation in creative subjects.
The educational reforms will encompass a more inclusive history curriculum that reflects the diversity of British history, including Black and Asian history. The government will introduce new enrichment benchmarks to ensure that every student has access to activities promoting civic engagement, arts and culture, nature and adventure, sport, and life skills.
While reducing exam time for GCSEs, the government is introducing new statutory requirements, including a reading test in year eight. The introduction of V-level qualifications aims to elevate the status of vocational education and provide clarity and quality in educational pathways.
To improve language skills, the government will implement new frameworks for oracy, reading, and writing at both primary and secondary levels. These initiatives aim to enhance students’ speaking, reading, and writing capabilities across various subjects as part of a holistic educational strategy.