Literacy news
English one of four core subjects in new slimmed down curriculum
20 Jan 2011
Secretary of State Michael Gove has launched a review of the school curriculum, which will see fewer prescribed subjects, but "more facts" included in what children are taught.
Led by the Department for Education the review will be supported by education experts including:
- Tim Oates, of Cambridge university's exam board Cambridge Assessment
- Bernice McCabe, head of North London Collegiate school
- John McIntosh, retired head of the London Oratory school
- Sir Michael Wilshaw, head of Mossbourne academy
- Dylan Wiliam, formerly a deputy director at the University of London's Institute of Education
Mr Gove has told the review panel that English is among the four subjects that must remain compulsory for all children; the others are Maths, Science and PE.
Some welcomed the move towards a less prescriptive curriculum. Russell Hobby, general secretary of the National Association of Head Teachers, said heads were "hoping for a significant reduction in the depth and breadth of prescription".
However, both Labour and many teaching unions have criticised the proposals as a step backwards to a 1950s concept of education.
Shadow Secretary of State, Andy Burnham MP, said Mr Gove was stuck in the past, foisting his 1950s vision of education onto today's schools and students.
Read about the plans on the BBC website
Read the remit for the review at the Department for Education website
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