03/12/2024
The National Society for Education has published its response to the Department for Education’s Curriculum and Assessment Review, calling for a long-term vision for reform that places equity and aspiration at the heart of education.
The response, rooted in the Church of England’s commitment to serving the common good, advocates for systemic changes to ensure that all children flourish, regardless of their background or circumstances. Key proposals include:
- Designing curriculum and assessment pathways with a long-term view, ensuring the Class of 2040—already in the education system today—benefits from inclusive and transformational learning experiences.
- Blending academic, technical, and vocational pathways to enable children to thrive in diverse contexts.
- Strengthening the quality and status of Religious Education (RE) through the implementation of a National Content Standard and reimagined assessment frameworks.
- Addressing the needs of marginalised groups, including children with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND), those experiencing socioeconomic disadvantage, and those in rural or small schools, from the outset of system design.
- Resourcing teachers and schools to deliver high-quality learning, with an emphasis on professional development and collaborative structures.
The National Society’s Chief Education Officer, Nigel Genders, said:
“This is a critical moment for the future of schools and for Education. We welcome the opportunity to submit evidence, and our response reflects the Church of England’s Vision for Education of enabling all children to live life in all its fullness. By taking a long-term approach, we can create a system where every child can flourish, and every teacher is empowered to deliver transformational education.”
The response builds on the National Society’s longstanding work to support schools through evidence-based policies and practices, including the 2023 paper Our Hope for a Flourishing Schools System.