About this guidance
By clicking on the link below you will be taken to the National Curriculum pages of the Department's website. The information on these pages sets out the legal requirements of the school curriculum in England for pupils aged 5 to 16 in maintained schools.
It should be noted that a review of the National Curriculum in England is currently underway. The aim of the review is to develop a coherent curriculum which allows children to build their knowledge systematically and consistently, and supports transition through from Key Stage 1 to Key Stage 4. Further information about the National Curriculum review can be found in the Review of the National Curriculum section.
Expiry/review date
The information on these pages will be updated in light of the ongoing National Curriculum review.
What legislation does this guidance relate to?
Section 78 of the Education Act 2002 requires all maintained schools to provide a broad and balanced curriculum. Section 1(6) of the Academies Act 2010 requires academies to provide a broad and balanced curriculum (this is due to be replaced by section 1A(1)(b) of the Academies Act 2010 from a date to be appointed).
Who is this guidance for?
The information on these pages is primarily aimed at classroom teachers and subject leaders in maintained schools.
Key points
- all maintained schools in England are required to follow the National Curriculum;
- the requirements for maintained schools are set out in the primary curriculum subjects and secondary curriculum subjects sections; and
- although academies and Free Schools are not required to follow the National Curriculum, they are required to provide a broad and balanced curriculum which includes English, mathematics, science and religious education. Beyond this, they have the freedom to design a curriculum which meets their pupils’ needs, aspirations and interests.
Links:
Review of the National Curriculum
