Consultation on the Curriculum and Assessment (Wales) Bill
Evidence submitted to the Children, Young People and Education Committee for Stage 1 scrutiny of the Curriculum and Assessment (Wales) Bill.
Organisation: WLGA
1. The Bill’s general principles
1.1 Do you support the principles of the Curriculum and Assessment (Wales) Bill?
Yes
1.2 Please outline your reasons for your answer to question 1.1
(we would be grateful if you could keep your answer to around 1500 words)
The need for a new curriculum in Wales is welcomed. The current model is based on a framework developed many years ago and is no longer fit for purpose. It has allowed for a narrowing of teaching and learning which has led to teaching and learning being something that is 'done' to leaners instead of them being an integral part.
We live in the 21st Century and the curriculum needs to reflect this. Learners need life skills, communication skills as well as the knowledge and understanding of the community and world in which they live in to be effective contributors in today's society.
Th new curriculum will bring a new lease of life to the education system in Wales, by engaging the interests of all children and young people. They will have the opportunity to be inquisitive by asking the right questions and exploring the answers. They will first-hand experiences that will challenge their thinking and allow them to be creative in their development.
The opportunity for schools to have the freedom to design their own curriculum is welcomed. Flexibility is key and will assist schools in developing their curriculum in accordance to the need of their local communities. Pedagogy, curriculum design and appropriate assessment are key components to an effective curriculum.
All children and young people have the right to a high-quality broad and balanced education. We welcome the areas of learning and the fact that all are equally as important.
The Bill is coherent and in line with the Donaldson Review, unpicking one element has implications for other parts. it is important that in the current world we live in that children and young people understand cultures and values from around the world so that they can be better citizens and try and eradicate some of the prejudices witnessed in society. All children and young people should have the right to access education that will give them clear and accurate information on topics that are important to their wellbeing. We welcome this approach and agree also with disapplication of English up to the age 7 to help support and maintain Welsh language fluency.
1.3 Do you think there is a need for legislation to deliver what this Bill is trying to achieve?
(we would be grateful if you could keep your answer to around 500 words)
Yes. This is needed to make certain that the curriculum is implemented effectively and successfully across Wales.
2. The Bill’s implementation
2.1 Do you have any comments about any potential barriers to implementing the Bill? If no, go to question 3.1
(we would be grateful if you could keep your answer to around 500 words)
The current COVID 19 pandemic could be a potential barrier in regards the timeline of implementation of the new curriculum. Especially now,with the start of the second wave of the pandemic.
2.2 Do you think the Bill takes account of these potential barriers?
(we would be grateful if you could keep your answer to around 500 words)
Not currently, as things are moving at such a pace it would be difficult under the circumstances.
3. Unintended consequences
3.1 Do you think there are there any unintended consequences arising from the Bill? If no, go to question 4.1
(we would be grateful if you could keep your answer to around 500 words)
The new curriculum is designed to help practitioners to develop a more integrated approach to learning. The Six Areas bring together familiar disciplines and encourage strong and meaningful links across different disciplines. Those individual disciplines will still play an important role, especially as learners progress and begin to specialise.
The framework promotes collaboration and cross-disciplinary planning, learning and teaching, both within and across the Areas. This will enable learners to build connections across their learning and combine different experiences, knowledge and skills.
4. Financial implications
4.1 Do you have any comments on the financial implications of the Bill (as set out in Part 2 of the Explanatory Memorandum)? If no, go to question 5.1
(we would be grateful if you could keep your answer to around 500 words)
We believe the need to plan and provide financial support for professional learning is key. Schools are expected to incur both direct and opportunity for professional learning costs as they design and implement their new curriculum. Sufficient funding is needed to deliver this effectively and successfully. Continued discussions with Welsh Government is key.
5. Powers to make subordinate legislation
5.1 Do you have any comments on the appropriateness of the powers in the Bill for Welsh Ministers to make subordinate legislation (as set out in Chapter 5 of Part 1 of the Explanatory Memorandum). If no, go to question 6.1.
(we would be grateful if you could keep your answer to around 500 words)
The curriculum will need to adapt and amend over time to ensure it remains appropriate, relevant and fit for purpose in the 21st Century. The key is to ensure that the main principles of the curriculum are considered and adhered to. A balance will be require to ensure the curriculum remains true to it's principles but is not overloaded and narrowed.
6. Other considerations
6.1 Do you have any other points you wish to raise about this Bill?
(we would be grateful if you could keep your answer to around 1000 words)
na