Question to the Department for Education:

To ask the Secretary of State for Education, what assessment her Department has made of the potential merits of making (a) critical thinking and (b) problem solving key competencies in the education system.

It is important that young people are equipped with the key knowledge and skills to adapt to a rapidly changing world.

The government has established an independent Curriculum and Assessment Review, which is evaluating the existing national curriculum and statutory assessment system in England, to ensure they are fit for purpose. It is considering whether there is sufficient coverage of knowledge and skills that are essential to sufficiently prepare children and young people for future life and to thrive.

The Review’s interim report, published in March 2025, notes the rise of artificial intelligence and trends in digital information, and states the curriculum must keep pace with these changes, including a renewed focus on digital and media literacy and critical thinking skills.

The Review’s final report and recommendations will be published in autumn, at which point the government will respond.