Pupils' Experiences and Perspectives of the National Curriculum and Assessment: Final report for the research review

Key Findings

The report presents the findings that continue to have significance in the light of current policy, and that are raised by learners as much today as throughout previous years.

• Learners tend to have a narrow view of the relevance of the curriculum, associated with perceived subject status, assessment and ‘getting grades’ (that is, implicit messages permeate pupils’ views). Real-life connections, vocational and practical application are valued by pupils.
• Pupils’ enjoyment of the curriculum decreases across the key stages, including a dip in Year 8 (a year with ‘no focus’, ‘in limbo’). However, there is some improvement in pupils’ enjoyment in key stage 4, particularly of optional subjects.
• The right level of challenge is important to pupils’ engagement, enjoyment, progression and achievement. ‘Too much writing’ and ‘too many facts’ are common sentiments from pupils on the manageability of the curriculum. They recommend slimmer subject content, although not necessarily less depth.

Related Titles

Pupils' experiences and perspectives of the National Curriculum and assessment , Pupils' experiences and perspectives of the National Curriculum and assessment , Pupils' experiences and perspectives of the National Curriculum and assessment , Practical guide to the 2014 National Curriculum volume 1 , Practical guide to the 2014 National Curriculum volume 4 , Primary Assessment and Accountability under the New National Curriculum

Sponsor Details

QCA