Every pupil should be entitled to a broad and balanced curriculum says NASUWT

The NASUWT-The Teachers’ Union has deplored the impact of reforms which have led to a narrowing of the education curriculum and the loss of teacher and support staff jobs at TUC Congress in Brighton.

The Union asserts that every pupil should be entitled to a broad and balanced curriculum that enhances life chances and enables children to realise their full potential. 

The NASUWT has called on the UK Government to ensure a genuine broad and balanced curriculum as an entitlement for every pupil, as well as protecting jobs of teachers and support staff.  

Moving the motion, Dave Kitchen, President of the NASUWT-The Teachers’ Union, said:

“Evidence shows how a broad and balanced curriculum raises pupils’ attainment, including their attainment in core subjects. 

“Narrowing of the curriculum has limited the opportunities for all children to succeed and flourish, denying them the opportunity to fulfil their true potential.

“Furthermore, at a time when there is much uncertainty over the future of the country, limiting opportunities for creative subjects when the creative industries are so important to the UK, is threatening our economy.

“Curriculum that marginalises creative, artistic, civic, sporting skills and knowledge cannot be described in any meaningful sense as broad, balanced and fit for purpose in the 21^st century.

“The NASUWT will continue to campaign vigorously for a broad and balanced curriculum so that all children and young people can benefit from their entitlement to a curriculum that meets their needs and aspirations.”

ENDS

Notes to editors

The text of the motion which was debated is below:

Curriculum narrowing

Congress deplores the impact of reforms which have led to a narrowing of the education curriculum and the loss of teacher and support staff jobs.

Congress asserts that every pupil should be entitled to receive a broad and balanced curriculum that enhances life chances and enables children to realise their full potential.

Congress is appalled at the loss of subject specialist teachers in many schools, driven by failed government policies, lack of funding for education and the failure of schools to invest in teachers.

Congress demands action by the government to:

i. ensure a genuine broad and balanced curriculum as an entitlement for every pupil

ii. protect jobs of teachers and support staff.