The UK curriculum can be quite confusing for parents, especially when their children attend secondary school and start their GCSEs and A Levels. Things have changed a lot since we were in school, especially when it comes to how youngsters are assessed on their progress. In 2016, for example, GCSEs are now graded using a number system, as opposed to the familiar A*-E system.
For parents who want to be actively involved in their child’s education so that they can help them progress, it’s a good idea to start by understanding their curriculum. I have teamed up with a private school in Cardiff to share some information and advice.
The National Curriculum
In the UK, all government funded schools must follow the “National Curriculum” so that all students of the same age group are given the same level of education regardless of where they live. Independent schools are given more leeway with the curriculum, but tend to follow a similar programme, nonetheless.
The Key Stages
In Year 1 and 2, students study Key Stage 1 of the National Curriculum. In Years 3, 4, 5 and 6, they study Key Stage 2, before moving up to secondary school. Key Stage 3 refers to year groups 7 to 9, and Key Stage 4 includes Years 10 and 11. In Key Stage 4, students are given the opportunity to be more selective about which subjects they can study.
Post-16 Education
After completing their GCSEs at the end of Year 11, students must stay in education until they are 18, but this can take on various forms, not just classroom study. For instance, young people who prefer a more hands-on learning experience might choose to take on an apprenticeship, where they will be given real-life experience in the world of work. Students who are hoping to attend university usually choose to study A Levels for two years.
At the end of each key stage, pupils usually take national tests and are given teacher assessments to monitor their progress. If you require more information about your child’s curriculum and the lesson material, it would certainly be worth contacting their teachers who will be able to give you an outline.