One of the most important changes brought about by the Education Reform Act 1988, was the introduction of a National Curriculum for children aged 5 to 16, in all state schools.

The National Curriculum consists of nine subjects: English, Mathematics, Science and Information and Communication Technology (which includes computers and other technologies) are known as the “core subjects”. Technology and Design, History, Geography, Music, Art and Physical Education make up the “foundation subjects”.

In addition to these subjects, Religious Education must also be taught.

Each year group follows the National Curriculum within Key Stage 1 and Key Stage 2. For each subject there will be learning objectives setting out what the children should know, and be able to do, at each stage of their schooling. These objectives are called “Attainment Targets”. These are now fully integrated with the learning objectives set out on the National Numeracy and Literacy Strategies. For each subject there will also be descriptions of what children should be taught to help them achieve these attainment targets. These are called “Programmes of Study”.

Children will be formally assessed at the ages of 7 and 11. Children’s progress will be measured partly on the basis of teacher assessment, and partly by national tests known as “Standard Assessment Tasks” (SATs). These are administered to 7 year olds in the late Spring and to 11 year olds in mid-May.