Skip to main content

Estyn report: how primary schools are adapting their curriculum to respond to curriculum and education reforms

Darllenwch y dudalen hon yn Gymraeg

CfW blog - images - Estyn review image - child with pencil rocketBetween January and July 2017, Estyn inspectors visited primary schools around Wales to understand how they are adapting to the forthcoming changes.

Their report, also strongly relevant to secondary schools, shows how schools at different stages of development are exploring new curricular approaches and teaching strategies. Twenty case studies have been included as examples.

Inspectors focused on three questions:

  • How are schools evaluating their curriculum to determine what needs to change to realise a new Curriculum for Wales?
  • How are schools responding to evaluation outcomes to plan and develop a curriculum that is engaging and attractive, one that develops an ability and enthusiasm to apply knowledge and skills independently?
  • How are leaders monitoring change and taking their work to the next step?

Leaders shared their experiences openly and discussed the impact that support and guidance offered through various professional learning events, networks, working groups, and partnerships is having on curriculum development. Professional learning opportunities included schools as learning organisations working groups, school-to-school collaboration, guidance from local authorities and consortia, and opportunities to consult with the Welsh Government.

Leave a Reply