In a push that could reshape the future of education in England, experts are urging for a sweeping review of the current curriculum and assessment practices. At the heart of the latest recommendations from educational leaders aiming to overhaul England’s education system lies the vision where students are not just prepared for endless exams but engaged in a curriculum that truly reflects their interests and needs.
Education in England has long been dominated by a rigorous testing culture. Pupils spend an average of 30 hours sitting GCSE exams during their final summer at secondary school, a fact that has raised concerns about the pressure placed on students. With 163 grammar schools across the country, the focus on academic achievement is intense, often overshadowing broader educational goals. As the government prepares for a curriculum and assessment review, education experts are stepping up with a series of proposals designed to create a more balanced and inclusive system.
Dominic Wyse, a professor at UCL, advocates for a shift towards a learner-centered approach. “We need more focus on the learner, their interests and their needs than there is at the moment,” he states. The current system’s over-reliance on standardized tests and academic subjects has been criticized for stifling creativity and diversity in education. Paul Whiteman of the NAHT suggests scrapping unnecessary statutory tests such as the multiplication tables check and key stage 2 grammar, punctuation, and spelling test, arguing that these do little to enhance learning.
The push to reform GCSEs is also a major point of discussion. Professor John Jerrim calls for reducing the extensive assessment period, questioning the need for three full weeks of testing. “I would like to see GCSEs remain – don’t throw the baby out with the bath water – but cut the assessment time down to a week,” he suggests. This change could alleviate some of the stress associated with these exams, offering students a fairer opportunity to demonstrate their knowledge and skills.
Consider the story of Mia, a student overwhelmed by the endless stream of exams and assessments. Under the proposed changes, Mia’s experience might shift from a relentless testing environment to a more balanced educational approach, where her individual strengths and interests are recognized and nurtured. This shift could also benefit working-class students, who often face additional barriers in accessing educational opportunities. Lee Elliott Major from Exeter University emphasizes the need to celebrate working-class achievements, which could inspire and motivate students from diverse backgrounds.
The curriculum review also addresses the need for more inclusive education. Lavinya Stennett of The Black Curriculum argues for the integration of Black history across all subjects, not just as a standalone topic. Meanwhile, Lucy Emmerson from the Sex Education Forum highlights the demand for inclusive and updated Relationship and Sex Education (RSE) that begins early and evolves through a student’s school life.
While these proposals are promising, implementing them will not be without challenges. The shift from a test-centric to a more holistic approach requires substantial changes in school practices and teacher training. There is also the question of balancing academic rigor with the need for a broader curriculum. How will schools manage to incorporate these changes without compromising on core academic standards?
The call for an overhaul of England’s curriculum and assessment system represents a pivotal moment in education reform. By focusing on reducing testing pressures, broadening educational content, and enhancing inclusivity, these recommendations aim to create a more supportive and effective learning environment. As the review progresses, it will be crucial for policymakers, educators, and communities to collaborate in making these changes a reality. The future of education in England could be brighter, with a system that values each student’s unique potential and prepares them for a diverse and dynamic world.
Summary
- Education experts are calling for a major overhaul of England’s curriculum and assessment system.
- Proposed changes include reducing testing pressures, broadening the curriculum, and reforming GCSEs.
- There is a push to enhance opportunities for working-class students and decolonize the curriculum.
- Updates to sex education are also on the table to ensure inclusivity and relevance.
