Welsh Schools to See ‘Radical Curriculum Overhaul’

Schools in Wales will be given more freedom to structure what they teach to suit the needs of their own pupils as part of a ‘radical overhaul’ of the national curriculum.

An emphasis on digital technology and digital competence, the removal of ‘formal’ pre- 16 exams and more freedom for teachers on what they can teach in the classroom are just some of the factors expected to be introduced to Welsh schools over the next few years.

The Welsh Government has accepted the recommendations of an independent review by Professor Graham Donaldson, which calls for major curriculum changes.

The review itself was carried out between March and December 2014, were Professor Donaldson and his team visited 60 schools across Wales and consulted with members of staff and pupils to help identify what topics they would like to see featured on Welsh curriculum’s.

Professor Donaldson’s Successful Futures report reviewed what, and how children learn between the ages of three and sixteen. It aims to raise standards and recommends placing greater emphasis on digital technology, with the introduction of three ‘cross-curriculum responsibilities – literacy, numeracy and digital competence – that all teachers would be expected to deliver.

The report promotes a greater freedom for schools to decide what they teach and for more continuity between subjects. Formal pre-16 exams look set to be scrapped and when implemented, Key Stages would be removed and replaced with ‘progression steps’, promoting a more seamless system of learning.

Wrexham Assembly Member Lesley Griffiths has welcomed the Welsh Government’s decision and believes the existing national curriculum, which was originally adopted in the late 1980s, is out-dated and disjointed.

Local AM Ms Griffiths said: “This comprehensive review has outlined a new, modern and innovative Welsh curriculum, which will ensure students receive the best possible education and start in life.”

“I am pleased the Welsh Government has accepted its recommendations, as well as outlining how the teaching profession will play a central role in helping implement the changes, which I believe is vital.”

“Another aspect of the report that is particularly pleasing is the proposed introduction of digital competence. As digital technology plays such an important role in society, I am pleased it has been recognised as a core subject so young people in Wales will have the skills to compete in the jobs market.”

No timetable is yet in place as to when the changes will come into force, but further details are expected to be announced in the autumn.

A summary on Professor Donaldson’s findings can be found here.