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National curriculum

The set of subjects and programmes of study that maintained schools in England must teach from Year 1 to Year 11. Academies must teach a broad and balanced curriculum but need not follow it.

Used in
England
Topic
Curriculum

Being checked against official sources. This definition is written in our own words; always check the official guidance for your country.

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Programme of study (PoS) England
The statutory description in the national curriculum of what must be taught in a subject at each key stage.
Key stage (KS) England Wales Northern Ireland
A block of school years used to organise the national curriculum and its assessments. England has Key Stages 1 to 4 (with the EYFS before and 16 to 19 study after).
Foundation subjects England
National curriculum subjects other than the core subjects, such as art and design, computing, design and technology, languages, geography, history, music and physical education.
Core subjects England
In the national curriculum in England, English, mathematics and science.

More terms: Curriculum

Key Stage 4 · Key Stage 5 · Knowledge-rich curriculum · Personal development · Prime areas · PSHCE

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Definitions are written by Classfern in our own words for teachers in the UK and the US. They are short explanations, not legal or official definitions: always check the official guidance for your country, nation or state. Classfern is not affiliated with or endorsed by any government department, inspectorate or exam board named here.