1. High Standards – For All 

While the curriculum has raised standards overall, there’s a clear aim to ensure high standards for all students, including socio-economically disadvantaged pupils and those with SEND. The report highlights persistent attainment gaps that need tackling. 

2. Balance of Breadth & Depth

The review emphasises the importance of a broad and balanced curriculum across all key stages. However, it acknowledges that current content demands may limit both depth of understanding and teacher flexibility. 

- Primary (KS1 & KS2): Teachers report struggling to cover the full content while achieving depth. 

- KS3: Concerns that GCSE preparation is narrowing the curriculum too early. 

- KS4: Questions raised around EBacc’s influence on limiting student choice, squeezing time for creative and vocational subjects. 

3. Fit for the Future

The curriculum must prepare young people for the rapidly changing world: 

- Greater focus needed on digital skills, media literacy, AI, and sustainability. 

- Calls for more applied life skills, such as financial education and careers preparation. 

4. Assessment System – Mostly Staying Put

While the phonics check, KS2 tests, GCSEs, and A-Levels are broadly working, the review will: 

- Reassess KS2 writing assessments & KS4 exam volumes. 

- Explore how assessments can better support SEND pupils without compromising rigour. 

5. Next Steps

In the next phase, the panel will: 

- Review subject content, particularly balancing specificity and volume. 

- Look closely at EBacc’s role in student choices. 

- Examine post-16 technical pathways to ensure they are accessible and understood. 

- Continue to engage educators to shape practical, phased reforms – evolution, not revolution.