Prime Highlights :
- The UK government is introducing a new national curriculum to prepare students with the skills needed for life and work in today’s fast-changing world.
- The reforms focus on improving reading, writing, and practical learning while giving equal importance to arts, science, and other key subjects.
Key Facts :
- A new reading test will be introduced in Year 8, and stronger writing checks will take place in Year 6 to support students who need extra help.
- The updated national curriculum will be published by spring 2027 and fully implemented in schools from September 2028.
Background :
The UK government is updating the national curriculum to help students gain strong skills in reading, science and maths, and the practical knowledge they need to succeed in today’s world
Responding to the recommendations from Professor Becky Francis’s Curriculum and Assessment Review, the government confirmed steps to raise education standards and expand opportunities under its Plan for Change. The reformed curriculum will be central to achieving the Prime Minister’s goal of having two-thirds of young people involved in higher-level learning by the age of 25.
For the first time, primary school children will learn how to spot fake news and stay safe online. Students will learn about money and finance from a young age to build financial awareness.
Arts GCSEs will be given equal importance to humanities and languages to encourage creativity and confidence. Schools will also be expected to offer triple science GCSE as standard, and a new qualification in data science and AI is being explored for students aged 16 to 18.
Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson said the changes will “breathe new life” into the curriculum and help young people “step boldly into the future with the knowledge to achieve and the skills to thrive.”
The reforms also include a new core enrichment entitlement, guaranteeing every child access to arts, sport, nature, and civic engagement. The new national curriculum will be released by spring 2027 and start in schools from September 2028. These are the biggest changes in years, helping education keep up with today’s world.
