We commend Professor Becky Francis and the Curriculum and Assessment Review panel for their evidence-based work and commitment to a knowledge-rich curriculum, high standards for all pupils and professional autonomy for teachers – principles behind many of the most successful
Free schools have consistently demonstrated what is possible when teachers are trusted to design ambitious, innovative curricula that combine academic rigour with creativity, enrichment and real-world learning. Many are already delivering the kind of forward-looking education now proposed nationally. We are proud that the free school movement continues to influence system-wide improvement.
As the Government prepares to implement these reforms, it is vital that they protect the space and flexibility schools need to innovate. A national curriculum should set high expectations, not limit professional judgment or impose unnecessary prescription.
We remain concerned that the Children’s Wellbeing and Schools Bill will compel academies and free schools to follow the new curriculum in full. Making the curriculum compulsory for all schools reduces innovation by design, and as we continue to strive to support every child, especially the most disadvantaged, we will want to innovate further still.
The Government often talks of not putting on a ceiling on innovation and whilst a welcome sentiment, it must acknowledge that resources, both time and money, and central prescription are such a ceiling.