Curriculum support

In September 2014 a new national curriculum came in to force in England

Read more about this and download the programmes of study here.

The national curriculum is different from the school curriculum which is developed by each individual school tailored to the needs of their children.  The school curriculum comprises all learning and other experiences that each school plans for its pupils. The national curriculum forms one part of the school curriculum.

Schools must publish their school curriculum on their websites.

Guidance

The Cultural Learning Alliance consulted extensively with our members during the development of the 2014 new national curriculum. Based on these consultations we have pulled together a list of questions schools could ask of themselves about their school curriculum in Art & Design, Dance, Drama and Music. See the menu to the right for additional information about each subject.

Questions for school leaders and governors

  1. Why is art, dance, drama and music important in your school?  
  2. Where does or can art, dance, drama and music provision:
    • contribute to the ethos and cultural offer of the school?
    • contribute to children’s social, moral, spiritual and cultural development?
    • involve and motivate children so that they develop as expressive, creative and confident learners through making, performing and appreciating art, dance, drama and music?
    • involve children in active learning, with opportunities for independent learning, making drama with others, problem solving and decision making?
  3. How do you assess the quality and the impact of the art, dance, drama and music offer on children’s learning?  

 

We also recommend the guidance published by specialist subject associations: