Understanding the primary school curriculum
Image: Schoolboy and schoolgirl walking through a park wearing rucksacks
Core Subjects
The primary school curriculum in the UK is divided into core subjects and foundation subjects. The core subjects are:
English: Focuses on reading, writing, speaking and listening skills. Children learn phonics, grammar, punctuation and spelling.
Maths: Covers number operations, geometry, measures and data handling. Emphasis is placed on problem-solving and reasoning.
Science: Introduces basic concepts in biology, chemistry and physics. Children engage in experiments and learn scientific methods.
Foundation subjects
In addition to the core subjects, children study a range of foundation subjects, including:
History: Learning about significant events and people from the past, both in the UK and globally.
Geography: Understanding physical and human geography, including map skills and environmental issues.
Art and design: Encouraging creativity through drawing, painting, sculpture and other artistic techniques.
Design and technology: Developing practical skills through projects involving planning, designing and making.
Music: Exploring different genres, learning to play instruments and understanding musical notation.
Physical education (PE): Promoting physical fitness and skills through various sports and activities.
Computing: Teaching digital literacy, coding and safe internet use.
Languages: Introducing a foreign language, typically from Key Stage 2 (ages 7 to 11).
Personal, Social, Health and Economic (PSHE) Education: PSHE education helps children develop the knowledge, skills and attributes they need to manage their lives now and in the future. It covers health and wellbeing, relationships and the wider world.
Religious Education (RE): RE is a statutory subject in the UK, though parents have the right to withdraw their children. It involves learning about different religions, beliefs and values, promoting understanding and respect.
Assessment and testing
Children are assessed through a combination of teacher assessments and standardised tests. Key assessments include:
Phonics Screening Check: Conducted in Year 1 to assess phonics knowledge.
Key Stage 1 SATs: Taken at the end of Year 2, covering English and maths.
Key Stage 2 SATs: Taken at the end of Year 6, covering English, maths and sometimes science.
Curriculum flexibility
While the National Curriculum provides a framework, schools have the flexibility to adapt it to meet the needs of their pupils. While core content is consistent, the approach and additional topics may vary.
Supporting your child
Understanding the curriculum allows you to support your child’s learning at home better. Here are some tips:
Stay informed: Regularly communicate with your child’s teachers and attend parent-teacher meetings.
Encourage reading: Foster a love for reading by providing a variety of books and reading together.
Practice maths: Use everyday activities, like cooking or shopping, to practice maths skills.
Explore science: Engage in simple science experiments at home to spark curiosity.
Promote creativity: Encourage artistic and musical activities to develop creativity.
By understanding the primary school curriculum, you can play an active role in your child’s education, helping them to thrive academically and personally.
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