Latest news with #NationalCurriculumforEngland
Yahoo
20-03-2025
- Politics
- Yahoo
‘Stress' can't be an excuse for letting children off exams
The National Curriculum for England is a relatively recent construct introduced in 1988 by the Thatcher government. Subsequent education ministers have reviewed it and tinkered with its contents and provisions. The Tories in 1995 sought to reduce the volume of statutory content and change methods of assessment. The Blair government announced another overhaul, particularly at primary level, to allow more time to be spent on the core subjects of English, Mathematics and Science. Further changes were introduced in Sept 2008 and again by Michael Gove in the Coalition in 2013. Another review is under way. An interim report published this week proposes to reduce pressures on pupils by limiting their exposure to exams. It said that 'intensive, high-stakes' assessments were having an impact on their 'wellbeing'. Polling found 41 per cent of last year's GCSE cohort found it difficult, while 10 per cent found it 'very difficult', to cope with exam stress. What has been apparent since the pandemic wrought such havoc with the education of a cohort of children is that their ability to deal with the normal vicissitudes of life has been constrained. Is it really a good idea to compound this tendency by continually making things easier? The review said that it 'would not fundamentally change the number of subjects that students study or are assessed in at GCSE.' But the direction of travel is to make life less stressful whereas it should be about giving pupils the necessary resilience to deal with the inevitable knocks that growing up entails. A curriculum fit for the modern world, which is what the Government wants to see, needs to address that above all else. Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 1 month with unlimited access to our award-winning website, exclusive app, money-saving offers and more.
Telegraph
20-03-2025
- Politics
- Telegraph
‘Stress' can't be an excuse for letting children off exams
The National Curriculum for England is a relatively recent construct introduced in 1988 by the Thatcher government. Subsequent education ministers have reviewed it and tinkered with its contents and provisions. The Tories in 1995 sought to reduce the volume of statutory content and change methods of assessment. The Blair government announced another overhaul, particularly at primary level, to allow more time to be spent on the core subjects of English, Mathematics and Science. Further changes were introduced in Sept 2008 and again by Michael Gove in the Coalition in 2013. Another review is under way. An interim report published this week proposes to reduce pressures on pupils by limiting their exposure to exams. It said that 'intensive, high-stakes' assessments were having an impact on their 'wellbeing'. Polling found 41 per cent of last year's GCSE cohort found it difficult, while 10 per cent found it 'very difficult', to cope with exam stress. What has been apparent since the pandemic wrought such havoc with the education of a cohort of children is that their ability to deal with the normal vicissitudes of life has been constrained. Is it really a good idea to compound this tendency by continually making things easier? The review said that it 'would not fundamentally change the number of subjects that students study or are assessed in at GCSE.' But the direction of travel is to make life less stressful whereas it should be about giving pupils the necessary resilience to deal with the inevitable knocks that growing up entails. A curriculum fit for the modern world, which is what the Government wants to see, needs to address that above all else.
Khaleej Times
19-03-2025
- General
- Khaleej Times
Purpose-driven Education: How The Arbor School is Shaping Future Leaders
Dubai's education landscape is constantly evolving, with schools striving to offer more than just academics. The Arbor School stands out with its forward-thinking approach, seamlessly blending the National Curriculum for England with a strong environmental and purpose-driven ethos. At the heart of Arbor's philosophy is personalised learning. With small class sizes, students receive individual attention, allowing them to explore their passions while excelling academically. The 'Arbor Extend' programme offers students the flexibility to pursue additional GCSEs and BTECs in subjects such as Engineering and Economics - broadening their horizons and preparing them for an increasingly complex world. The school's innovative 'Arbor Inspires' curriculum enables students to advance beyond their year group levels in Maths and English, reinforcing a culture of high achievement. This adaptability ensures that learning is not one-size-fits-all but rather a tailored journey that nurtures each child's unique strengths. What truly sets Arbor apart is its commitment to real-world learning. The eco-literacy curriculum, combined with the Global Perspectives IGCSE, encourages students to translate environmental awareness into action. Whether through community service projects, the Duke of Edinburgh Award, or initiatives like Model United Nations and the Global Impact Certificate, Arbor students are empowered to make a difference beyond the classroom. The school's facilities are equally distinctive. With biodomes, bio-farms, and a dedicated Sea School, students engage in hands-on learning, applying classroom knowledge to real-life challenges. This immersive approach ensures that graduates are not just academically accomplished but also environmentally conscious and socially responsible. Further amplifying opportunities is the Arbor Scholarship programme, which connects students with mentors in fields that align with their aspirations. By combining academic excellence with purpose-driven initiatives, The Arbor School is shaping the next generation of global leaders - equipped with the skills, values, and mindset to navigate the challenges of tomorrow.
Hi Dubai
21-02-2025
- Business
- Hi Dubai
UK Families Eye UAE as Top Destination Amid Rising Private School Costs, Reveals survey
The UAE has emerged as one of the top destinations for British families considering relocation, largely due to soaring private school fees in the UK, according to a new survey. A report titled Exodus & Education by GEMS Education highlights that the UK government's recent decision to impose a value-added tax (VAT) on private school fees from January 2025—announced in the October 2024 Autumn Budget—has prompted many families to explore international schooling options. Among parents with children enrolled in UK independent schools, 32% cited education as their primary reason for contemplating a move abroad. A Growing Trend of Overseas Relocation The report identifies a broader pattern of British families opting for international relocation, with Spain, Australia, Canada, New Zealand, the United States, and the UAE emerging as the most sought-after destinations. The UAE, in particular, has become a top choice due to its world-class private education sector and tax-free living, offering a stable and high-quality schooling environment. Lisa Crausby OBE, Group Chief Education Officer at GEMS Education, commented on the findings: 'The report shows that, for many families, moving away from the UK could become a reality in the near future. It is interesting to note that education—leading to a better future and job opportunities—is one of the key factors influencing this decision to move abroad." She further highlighted that British families relocating to the UAE can access high-quality schools that follow the National Curriculum for England, ensuring their children graduate with GCSE and A-level qualifications comparable to those obtained in the UK. "Students can seamlessly begin, continue, and complete their schooling abroad, benefiting from an international perspective and global citizenship," she added. The trend is already reflected in GEMS Education's student data, with an 8% year-on-year increase in British family enrollments across its 44 UAE schools and a 26% year-on-year surge in enquiries from UK-based families. UAE's Growing Status as a Global Education Hub Educational experts echo the sentiment that the UAE's reputation as a global education hub is strengthening, making it an attractive destination for UK parents. The country offers internationally recognised curricula, top-tier qualifications, and a multicultural learning environment within a safe and diverse setting. Johanna Waters, Professor of Human Geography at University College London (UCL), who contributed to the report, emphasized the broader implications of the findings. 'As an academic researching the link between education and migration for over 20 years, this report is a vital confirmation of the trends we have been observing. Education has long been a key driver of international relocation for families seeking global opportunities for their children. This report highlights the increasing movement of well-resourced families seeking education abroad amid uncertainty and perceived instability at home.' With its strategic location, world-class education system, and expat-friendly policies, the UAE is poised to remain a prime choice for British families seeking quality schooling options and a promising future for their children. News Source: Khaleej Times
Khaleej Times
20-02-2025
- Business
- Khaleej Times
UAE: Rising UK school fees push British families to move to Emirates, reveals survey
The UAE is among the top destinations for British families considering relocating, driven by the rising costs of private schools in the UK, revealed a new survey. The report, 'Exodus & Education' by GEMS Education, highlighted that the UK government's decision to impose value-added tax (VAT) on private school fees from January 2025 — announced in the October 2024 Autumn Budget — is a key factor driving families to seek alternatives abroad. Among parents surveyed with children in UK independent schools, 32 per cent cited their child's education as their top priority when considering a move. The report also notes a broader trend of British families relocating overseas, with Spain, Australia, Canada, New Zealand, the United States, and the UAE emerging as the most sought-after destinations. With its world-class private education sector and tax-free living, the UAE is increasingly seen as an attractive option for families seeking stability and quality schooling. Lisa Crausby OBE, Group Chief Education Officer at GEMS Education, said, 'The report shows that, for many families, moving away from the UK could become a reality in the near future. It is interesting to note that education — leading to a better future and job opportunities — is one of the key factors influencing this decision to move abroad. 'Today, it is easier than ever for expat families to find high-quality schools that teach the National Curriculum for England in the UAE and all parts of the world. Students can seamlessly begin, continue, and complete their schooling abroad, graduating with the same GCSE and A-level qualifications that they would have gained in the UK, enhanced with an international perspective and global citizenship. 'We are seeing this trend reflected at GEMS Education, where we have already recorded an eight per cent year-on-year increase in the number of British families enrolled in our 44 UAE schools, as well as a 26 per cent year-on-year rise in enquiries from the UK.' UAE's growing status as global education hub Other experts in the field also reiterated that the UAE has become a top choice for UK parents thanks to its growing status as a global education hub, offering internationally recognised curricula and qualifications in a diverse and safe environment. Johanna Waters, Professor of Human Geography, University College London (UCL), who contributed to the report, said, 'As an academic who has been researching the link between education and migration for over 20 years, the findings in this fascinating report are an important confirmation of the trends we've been lately seeing. 'For many years, education has been a primary driver of international relocation for parents concerned about their children's (global) futures. The report highlights a growing global trend in well-resourced families seeking schooling overseas when faced with increasing uncertainty and perceived instability at home.'
