Question to the Department for Education:

To ask His Majesty's Government what steps they are taking to support the teaching of (1) Latin, (2) classics, and (3) history of art, in the school curriculum; and what specific changes they have made to the curriculum and funding of these subjects since 5 July 2024.

Answered by Baroness Smith of Malvern - Minister of State (Minister for Women and Equalities)

The study of Latin, classics and history of art can teach us valuable lessons in history, politics and art that are as relevant in the 21st century as they were for the ancient world. All schools can choose to teach these subjects if they wish at any stage in a child’s education.

The department is working closely with the Centre for Latin Excellence to ensure that teachers delivering Latin through the Latin Excellence Programme to key stage 4 students are be prioritised for support before the programme ends on 28 February, and that all schools on the programme can continue to use its materials.

The art and design national curriculum includes in its aims that pupils should “know how art and design both reflect and shape our history, and contribute to the culture, creativity and wealth of our nation”.

The government has established an independent Curriculum and Assessment Review, covering ages 5 to 18, chaired by Professor Becky Francis CBE. The review's aim is for every child and young person to access a cutting-edge curriculum which is rich and broad, inclusive and innovative.

The review group will publish an interim report in early spring setting out its interim findings and confirming the key areas for further work, and it will publish its final report, with recommendations, this autumn. We will take decisions on what changes to make to the national curriculum in light of these recommendations.

Found: Brixton; Lord Lamont of Lerwick; Baroness Liddell of Coatdyke; Lord Liddle; Lord Londesborough; Lord Petitgas

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