In October last year, we encouraged education professionals to have their say on the Department for Education’s plans for a curriculum and assessment review, a move aimed at streamlining what children learn and how they are assessed.
Now, after reviewing the results, these reforms are beginning to take shape with the government signalling a reduction in primary content and fewer GCSE exams.
So, what could this mean for schools, teachers and pupils?
A more focused curriculum
The latest update suggests that primary schools could soon be working with a curriculum designed to prioritise depth over breadth. While this could allow teachers to spend more time embedding core knowledge and skills, it also raises questions about what will be removed. Striking the right balance will be crucial — schools need flexibility, but they also need clarity and consistency.
Fewer GCSE exams
The possibility of reducing the number of GCSE exams is equally significant. The pressure on pupils, and teachers, during the exam period is considerable. Fewer exams could lead to a more measured approach, allowing students to demonstrate knowledge and understanding in more diverse ways. But again, this comes with challenges: what assessments will replace them, and will they be fair and robust across all schools?
Recruitment and retention
Any change to curriculum and assessment inevitably affects workload and job satisfaction. If these reforms do reduce pressure and allow teachers to focus more on meaningful teaching, this could be a positive step for retention — something the sector urgently needs.
We’ll continue to follow these developments, but the education landscape could look very different once these reforms take place.
You can read more on the latest update in Schools Week here.
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