Agenda item

Purpose:

The purpose of the presentation was to examine to what extent the new curriculum for Wales could address the skills gaps in SE Wales.

Key Issues:

·         The draft curriculum was published on the 30^th April 2019.  The final publication will be in January 2020.

·         The new curriculum for Wales will become part of the statutory guidance for schools from 2022.

·         New qualifications will be available for learners from 2025, with the first assessment in 2027.  These learners are currently in Year 3 (will become part of the workforce from 2027 – 32 and beyond).

Member scrutiny:

The Children and Young People Select Committee received a presentation from the EAS Assistant Director, Professional Learning (Curriculum, Collaboration & Research).  Following the presentation, questions were asked:

·         A Member asked how the new curriculum has affected the number of vocational courses offered.  It was explained that the new curriculum is not part of the statutory framework until 2022 and consequently the offer has yet to be defined but there is commitment to provision of high quality, robust courses.

·         A Member asked about the new qualifications (digital and technology) referring to the need for more teachers and the budget constraints in secondary schools.  In terms of skills gap, it was explained that new employees are sought through a part time PGCE.  It will also be vital to ensure existing ICT staff have appropriate training

·         A Member commented that he was reassured about the Welsh Baccalaureate.  It was noted that two of the four secondary schools are located on the Wales/England border and that the curricula will be very different.  It was asked if there is any evidence of resistance from parents who may prefer the English offer. It was explained that there is no evidence so far and that there will be a need for an effective change management programme to allay concerns about e.g. future qualifications.

·         A Member commented on the migration of demand across the border to England, referring to the movement of people from Bristol to Chepstow.

·         A Member asked how the projected demand for caring, nursing and service industries would be addressed.  It was responded that there would be nothing in the new curriculum or new qualifications that will prevent any pathway to any career.  Schools will be able to develop some areas and the curriculum will allow schools to be more outward looking.

·         It was explained that more information is available on the link: https://hwb.gov.wales/draft-curriculum-for-wales-2022/ .  Members were informed that the governors’ training session was filmed and will be available soon to view.  There are also opportunities to provide feedback.

·         A Select committee member asked how workload issues will be monitored as some teachers are not coping with the workload with some leaving the profession.  It was responded that teachers are currently required to provide large amounts of evidence and this level of accountability will need to change.  School need to have the time to develop the new curriculum.  Professional learning and collaboration will also be key.

·         A Member emphasised that there must be recognition that whilst the new curriculum in development, teachers will still need to be in front of a class.

·         A Member asked about transition to new qualifications and was reassured that there would be natural progression as learners participate in the new curriculum from Year 3 and progress.

·         A Member asked for input from Pioneer Schools.