New primary school curriculum
The new primary school curriculum in England, introduced in 2014, is designed to provide a broad and balanced education for children aged 5-11. The curriculum is organized into three core subjects: English, mathematics, and science, as well as a range of foundation subjects.
Core Subjects:
- English: This includes reading, writing, speaking, and listening. The curriculum focuses on developing children's skills in reading comprehension, writing for different purposes, and speaking and listening.
- Mathematics: The curriculum covers number, algebra, geometry, measures, and statistics. It aims to develop children's problem-solving skills, fluency, and mathematical reasoning.
- Science: The curriculum covers biology, chemistry, and physics. It aims to develop children's understanding of the natural world, scientific processes, and the importance of scientific inquiry.
Foundation Subjects:
- History: The curriculum covers the history of Britain, Europe, and the wider world. It aims to develop children's understanding of chronology, cause and effect, and historical significance.
- Geography: The curriculum covers the study of people, places, and environments. It aims to develop children's understanding of geographical skills, map skills, and the impact of human and physical factors on the environment.
- Art and Design: The curriculum covers the creation of art, craft, and design. It aims to develop children's creativity, imagination, and technical skills.
- Design and Technology: The curriculum covers the design, making, and evaluation of products. It aims to develop children's problem-solving skills, creativity, and technical skills.
- Music: The curriculum covers the study of music, including singing, playing instruments, and composing music. It aims to develop children's musical skills, appreciation, and creativity.
- Physical Education: The curriculum covers the development of physical skills, including gymnastics, dance, and games. It aims to develop children's physical fitness, coordination, and teamwork skills.
- Computing: The curriculum covers the study of computer science, including programming, algorithms, and data structures. It aims to develop children's understanding of computing concepts and skills.
Other Aspects of the Curriculum:
- Personal, Social, and Emotional Development: The curriculum covers the development of social skills, emotional intelligence, and self-awareness. It aims to develop children's ability to work with others, manage their emotions, and develop a positive sense of self.
- Health and Wellbeing: The curriculum covers the importance of healthy lifestyles, including nutrition, exercise, and mental health. It aims to develop children's understanding of the importance of healthy habits and how to maintain them.
- Citizenship: The curriculum covers the study of democracy, rights, and responsibilities. It aims to develop children's understanding of the importance of active citizenship and how to participate in the democratic process.
Assessment and Accountability:
- National Curriculum Assessments: Children are assessed at the end of each key stage (KS1 and KS2) to measure their progress and attainment.
- SATs: Children take national tests in reading, grammar, punctuation, and spelling at the end of KS1 and KS2.
- Teacher Assessment: Teachers assess children's progress and attainment throughout the year, using a range of methods, including observations, tests, and written assessments.
Overall, the new primary school curriculum in England aims to provide a broad and balanced education that prepares children for the challenges of the 21st century.