The Curriculum

The National Curriculum

In 2014 an updated National Curriculum was introduced. The changes made are documented below.

English

Stronger emphasis on vocabulary development, grammar, punctuation and spelling (for example, the use of commas and apostrophes will be taught in KS1)
Reading is at the core of the whole curriculum with a big emphasis on reading for pleasure both at home and at school.
Handwriting (not currently assessed under the National Curriculum) is expected to be fluent, legible and speedy.
Spoken English is given greater emphasis, with children being taught debating and presentation skills.

Mathematics

Simple fractions will be taught from Key Stage 1, and by the end of primary school, children should be able to convert between decimals, fractions and percentages. (e.g. 0.375=3/8).
By the age of nine, children will be expected to know their times tables upto 12×12 and the related division facts.
Calculators will not be introduced until upper Key Stage 2, to encourage mental arithmetic skills.
Problem solving runs throughout all areas of the maths curriculum and is considered a key skill.
Children will be taught more formal written methods for all four rules, including long division and multiplication. Our calculation policy is available on the Policies page

Science

Strong focus on scientific knowledge and language, rather than understanding the nature and methods of science in abstract.
Evolution will be taught in primary school for the first time.

Computing

Computing replaces Information and Communication Technology (ICT), with a greater focus on programming rather than on operating programs.
From age five, children will learn to write and test simple programs, and to organise, store and retrieve data.
From seven, they will be taught to understand computer networks, including the internet.
Internet safety – currently only taught from 11-16 – will be taught in primary schools.

Design and Technology (DT)

Design and Technology has become more important in the new curriculum, setting children on the path to becoming the designers and engineers of the future.
More sophisticated use of design equipment such as electronics and robotics.
In KS2, children will learn about how key events and individuals in design and technology have shaped the world.
Greater emphasis on cookery with a focus on savoury dishes.

Geography

Greater use of atlases and maps including O.S. maps and digital maps.
Children are expected to know and locate countries, capitals, major cities, mountains and rivers.
In depth studies of a European, North/South American countries and a region of the British Isles are required.

History

Greater emphasis on British History taught in chronological order from Stone Age to 1066. Tudors no longer taught in KS2.

Languages

The term Languages will replace the term modern foreign languages.
Currently not statutory, a modern foreign language or ancient language such as Latin or Greek will be mandatory in KS2.
Children will be expected to master basic grammar and accurate pronunciation and to converse, present, read and write in the language.

Physical Education (PE), Music, Religious Education (RE)

If you would like to read further information regarding the changes, please select the link below.