Question to the Department for Education:

To ask His Majesty's Government what plans they have to introduce material into the National Curriculum regarding the role of the United Kingdom in the creation of Council of Europe.

The national curriculum for citizenship (key stages 3 and 4) provides a framework that would enable schools to discuss this matter. For example, pupils should be taught about local, regional and international governance and the United Kingdom’s relations with the rest of Europe, the Commonwealth, the United Nations and the wider world.

There is also considerable flexibility within the current history curriculum which would allow for teaching about this matter, for example in the statutory theme ‘challenges for Britain, Europe and the wider world 1901 to the present day’.

The government has established an independent Curriculum and Assessment Review, covering ages 5 to 18, chaired by Professor Becky Francis CBE. The review seeks to deliver a curriculum that ensures children and young people leave compulsory education ready for life and ready for work, building the knowledge, skills and attributes needed to thrive.

The Review Group has now published its interim report, which sets out its initial findings and confirms the key areas for further work. The report highlights the successes of the current system, making clear that the most trusted and valued aspects of our system will remain, whilst setting a positive vision for the future. The report is attached and can also be found here: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/curriculum-and-assessment-review-interim-report.

The Review’s final report and recommendations will be published in the autumn with the government’s response.