§ Mr. Patrick Thompsonasked the Secretary of State for Education and Science if he will make a statement about the Government's plans to introduce a national curriculum in schools.
§ Mr. Kenneth BakerMy right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for Wales and I propose to bring forward legislation in the autumn to introduce a national curriculum for pupils age 5 to 16 in maintained schools in England and Wales. We are today publishing a consultation document which develops in more detail the proposals I announced to the Education, Science and Arts Select Committee on 7 April.
This historic reform represents the culmination of over 10 years of debate which has resulted in general agreement about the aims of school education and widespread support for the idea of a national curriculum. Our legislation will now secure for pupils of all abilities and in all areas the benefits of a good and relevant curriculum. which is essential if standards are to be raised. A national 503W curriculum will also ensure that clear objectives are set for all pupils, within a framework which pupils, teachers, parents, employers and others understand and can support. Pupils' progress towards their objectives will be measured so as to ensure that they are achieving the best they can.
Comments on the main legislation are being invited by 30 September. There will be further consultations as more detailed proposals come forward in relation to individual subjects.
Copies of the consultation document have been placed in the Library and the Vote Office.