The curriculum is more than the programmes of study
Well hello there and welcome to update #052!
The purpose of the national curriculum is to set out the aims and principles of the subjects to be studied by pupils across their time in primary and secondary schooling. Each of the importance statements conveys the potential each subject has for developing both the intellectual and personal development of young people. They speak to the difference that a well rounded experience, for example in geography, can make in the long-term:
A high quality geography education should inspire in pupils a curiosity and fascination about the world and its people that will remain with them for the rest of their lives.
It is a way of ensuring that all pupils encounter, engage with and study to varying degrees of depth, the content and material which are considered important for a well-rounded experience. The importance statements for each subject set out the stall for the range of goodies to which all young people in maintained schools in England are entitled.
There is a further dimension to the curriculum which is this: to acknowledge that our young people are living in a rapidly changing, complex and challenging world. Many colleagues have noted that many young people are struggling and that they would benefit from resources to support their personal development.
I am delighted to announce that my colleague Rachel Higginson has developed Finding my Voice - a personal development and pedagogical approach which aims to connect the many components of students’ lives to one personal, powerful narrative. The curriculum axis.
The Finding my Voice curriculum axis helps to nurture young people to find
Their physical voice, so that the are able to express themselves in multiple contexts
Their metaphorical voice in terms of knowing their strengths, talents and passions
Finding my Voice is designed to increase engagement in the classroom and to have a positive impact on mental health and decision making. It also ensures that young people have the requisite skills to advocate for themselves both in their life and in the workplace.
The approach is designed to ensure young people are transition ready. Whether they are heading to another school, to higher education or into the world of work.
There’s an introductory webinar about the project, where you can here about the reasons why people are involved with this important work.
There’s Emmanuel Awoyelu, inclusion specialist and director of The Reachout Project, and here he talks about the difference Miss Spong made to his experience of school. Manny explains why ‘Finding my Voice’ is not just another initiative!
Here’s what spoken word artist Christian Foley has to say about the magic that happens when students find their voice! These wonderful professionals are joining Rachel Higginson and me on this powerful project and we hope you find it helpful.
Until next time
Mary
The Huh Academy is growing! It’s the home for our courses to support your work in school.
There are now introductory recordings for the Huh Curriculum Leaders course, the Leadership Lobby and Being your Best, Doing your Best with Dr Emma Kell.