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OECD visit explores Wales’ education reforms

Darllenwch y dudalen hon yn Gymraeg

Following the Atlantic Rim Collaboratory (ARC) Summit, hosted by the Welsh Government in the autumn, a delegation from the Paris-based Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) returned to Wales to take a closer look at the progress being made across the Education System to implement the new curriculum.  

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The delegates were joined by Claire Sinnema, an Associate Professor from the University of Auckland, New Zealand; such is the global attention that curriculum reform in Wales is attracting.

The visit was part of a wider assessment of Wales’ education reforms, due to report in March this year.

During an action-packed week, the delegation met Welsh Government policy leads, and education consortia representatives as well as HEI partners responsible for pioneering the professional learning aspects of curriculum reform. There was also a working breakfast with Kirsty Williams, Education Minister, and conversations with other key education stakeholders.

The group were keen to visit schools to reflect on pupil and practitioner feedback on preparations for the new curriculum.  Visits included Cardiff High School and Jubilee Park School in Newport – the latter a brand new 21st century school that has embraced the ethos of the new curriculum since it first opened its doors.  The group spoke to staff at all levels to learn about their experiences, and to pupils who gave   valuable insights into the effects the pioneering curriculum will have on future generations.

During the autumn term, Lead Enquiry Schools (formerly Professional Learning Pioneers) entered the next phase of the project focused on developing professional learning for the new curriculum.  Educational professionals can track ongoing school-led enquiries on Hwb – the next update will go live in March. 

The Professional Learning and Leadership Team, Welsh Government.

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