Curriculum for Excellence update

Kathleen Robertson, Early Years Professional Adviser to A Curriculum for Excellence 

In the Curriculum Review (A Curriculum for Excellence: The Curriculum Review Group, 2004), the strength of the ethos and methodology within the pre-school sector was fully acknowledged.

The Ministerial Response stated that in order to improve continuity and progression, transition arrangements should be improved and the active learning approaches of pre-school education should be continued in P1. Schools and pre-school centres across Scotland have procedures in place to support the transition of children from the pre-school sector to P1. However, there is widespread recognition that this critical aspect of our work should ensure continuity and progression not only in what children learn but as importantly in how they learn.

Where are we now?

Some authorities are already committed to developing a more child-centred, active learning approach in P1. Examples of best practice include teachers making effective use of learning through play. In these classrooms children are fully engaged in their learning, choosing from a wide range of well planned, stimulating activities. Teachers interact purposefully to extend learning, and work with small groups using a more direct teaching approach. They will draw the class together from time to time to explore and discuss learning.

Some authorities are actively working towards evaluating the effectiveness of their current transition procedures with a view to improving continuity and progression in learning. There will be challenges for many schools and centres, particularly those that transfer children to, or receive children from, a large number of establishments. However, as the curriculum develops, it will be crucial for all, including those in the private, voluntary and independent sectors, to liaise closely regarding children’s progress.

Early level

Engagement

During April/May three early years conferences took place in Edinburgh, Glasgow and Aberdeen. These provided the early years community with opportunities to engage in discussion and debate around Curriculum for Excellence.

The teams at SEED and LTS have been visiting authorities and establishments to observe and discuss best practice. Further seminars are planned to work with early years officers to support the dissemination and implementation of Curriculum for Excellence across the country.

Next steps

This is an exciting time in Scottish education. We are developing a curriculum that will meet the needs of children in our rapidly changing society. In the early years we are starting from a sound base; however, we know from HMIE’s Improving Scottish Education (2006) that we have work to do to improve aspects of practice, particularly in leadership and in our engagement with children to support and challenge them in their learning. We should now build on our strengths and continue to develop the quality of learning experiences for our young children as we move towards excellence.