Commenting at the end of the consultation on the Curriculum and Assessment Review, Daniel Kebede, General Secretary of the National Education Union, said:
“The curriculum and assessment systems in England are outdated and unfit for what children and young people need today. It’s really welcome that the Government’s review panelling is conducting this call for evidence.
“The curriculum must be improved so that it prepares all students for life in modern, diverse Britain, actively challenges barriers and inequality, and helps all children and young people have a sense of belonging in education.
“It must become broader and guarantee access to the arts for all, with more time for PE and outdoor learning and engaging opportunities such as project work and experiential learning. Children and young people need a more stimulating and enriching curriculum which balances knowledge with creative and problem-solving skills.
“Assessment methods are not varied enough to develop the breadth of skills required, nor to properly allow students to show what they can do. Exams alone cannot assess all that students are capable of and young people need different pathways which are fair and motivational.
“It is accountability which is driving assessment decision-making and this isn’t the right way round. The EBacc should be ended because of its limiting impact on young people’s curriculum options. Preparation for GCSEs dominates far too much of secondary school life and the intense exam factory culture that has been created isn’t working for students or teaching staff.
“It’s time to use the expertise and insight of those working so hard in our classrooms.”