Pupils should sit fewer GCSE exams and Michael Gove's English baccalaureate (Ebacc) could be scrapped under plans recommended by Labour's curriculum review. The interim report, published on Tuesday, also proposes more emphasis on digital and media literacy, sustainability and climate science.
Primary school Sats tests and other assessments are set to remain despite widespread objections from parents and teachers. The review panel, led by Professor Becky Francis, said primary assessment was 'non-negotiable' for maintaining standards.
The report calls for greater diversity and inclusion across the curriculum so all children see themselves reflected in textbooks and lesson materials, and a new focus on digital and media literacy, sustainability and climate science to meet 21st-century challenges.
Applied knowledge and skills, including finance, budgeting, employment skills, problem-solving projects, and public speaking, are also being considered in response to demands from parents and children. The review attracted 7,000 responses to its call for evidence.
The panel expressed concern that the volume of content in GCSEs leads to 'teaching to the test' and that maths and English resits often result in repeated failures. It will explore 'other pathways' for these subjects. The number of subjects studied will not be reduced, however.
Shadow education secretary Laura Trott criticised the proposals, warning of 'soft bigotry of low expectations' and less rigorous qualifications. But the review stressed the need to reduce assessment volume to alleviate stress and improve pupil wellbeing, while maintaining reliability.
