Your Child's Future: The Big Changes Happening to England's National Curriculum
- Joseph
- Nov 7
- 4 min read
This week, the Department for Education unveiled updates to the National Curriculum. It will change the way children learn, the subjects available for them to study and how their progress is assessed from September 2028.
We've summed up the key takeaways below!
Shorter GCSE Exam Time
Did you know that the average GCSE student sits about 31.5 hours of exams over the course of their exam season? The government has deemed this to be excessive in their latest report, so the total exam time at GCSE level will be reduced by about 10%, which means roughly 2.5 to 3 fewer hours of testing. This change aims to reduce pressure on students and give them more time to absorb and apply knowledge rather than just prepare for exams.
New National Tests in Year 6 and Year 8
To track progress more consistently across schools, a national writing test will be introduced in Year 6, and a national reading test in Year 8. These assessments will help identify areas where students need extra support early on.
This isn't anything revolutionary as standardised testing has been part of the KS3 curriculum before (some of our parents and tutors will remember year 9 SATs!). However, the focus on literacy skills this time around is more purposeful as it is aimed at tackling low literacy skills in the wider population. Plus, the new tests will provide clearer benchmarks, so that if your child struggles in these areas, schools can intervene earlier with targeted support.
Expanded Curriculum Content
The curriculum will now include new subjects like:
AI and data literacy: Teaching children how artificial intelligence works and how to understand and use data responsibly.
Media literacy: Helping students spot fake news and navigate digital communication critically.
Stronger oracy focus: Emphasising spoken communication skills to build confidence and clarity in expressing ideas.
Earlier and Consistent Life Skills Education
Subjects like citizenship, financial literacy, climate education, and practical life skills will be introduced earlier in primary school and taught more consistently throughout a child’s education.
Renewed Emphasis on Arts, Creative Subjects, and STEM
The curriculum will give arts and languages a stronger status alongside science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM).
All GCSE students will have access to triple science courses covering biology, chemistry, and physics in greater depth, meaning that all schools will be able to give students the opportunity to get a GCSE for each of the 3 sciences, rather than 2 for combined science.
What These Changes Mean for Your Child
Understanding how these updates affect your child’s education can help you support their learning journey effectively.
Reduced Exam Stress
With shorter GCSE exams, students will face less testing fatigue. This change encourages deeper understanding rather than simply memorising content, which can improve long-term retention and reduce anxiety.
Early Identification of Learning Needs
The new Year 6 writing and Year 8 reading tests will provide clear benchmarks. If your child struggles in these areas, schools can intervene earlier with targeted support.
Preparing for a Digital and Media-Savvy World
Introducing AI, data literacy, and media literacy equips children with skills essential for the modern world. Your child will learn to think critically about information and technology, skills that are valuable in nearly every career.
Building Communication and Life Skills
The focus on oracy and life skills means your child will develop confidence in speaking and practical knowledge about money, citizenship, and the environment. These skills prepare them for real-world challenges beyond academics.
Balanced Academic and Creative Development
The renewed focus on arts and languages alongside STEM subjects supports a well-rounded education. This balance helps children discover their strengths and interests, which can guide future study and career choices.
How to Support Your Child Through These Changes
Parents (and tutors like us) play a crucial role in helping children adapt and thrive under the new curriculum.
Stay Informed and Communicate with Schools
Keep up to date with your child’s school plans for implementing the new curriculum. Attend parent meetings and ask how the school will support students through the transition.
Encourage Reading and Writing at Home
Since national tests will assess writing and reading skills, encourage your child to read widely and practice writing regularly. Discuss books, current events, and encourage storytelling to build oracy skills.
Explore Digital Literacy Together
Talk about how to evaluate online information and the basics of AI and data. Simple activities like identifying trustworthy news sources or discussing how voice assistants work can build understanding.
Support Creative and STEM Interests
Encourage your child to participate in arts, music, languages, and science activities outside school. This can include clubs, online courses, or family projects that make learning enjoyable and relevant.
Teach Practical Life Skills
Incorporate lessons on money management, environmental responsibility, and citizenship into daily life. For example, involve your child in budgeting for groceries or discuss recycling and climate change.
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