In the run up to Christmas there was great news for all of us who believe that ‘the arts’ have a key role to play in this country’s education system. The publication by Department for Education of a Review of the National Curriculum by the ‘expert panel’ led by Tim Oates recognises our belief, the belief of many others in our sector and the extensive research available, and concludes that arts subjects should retain their statutory place in the national curriculum. The expert panel goes further in suggesting that the current national curriculum narrows to early and that ‘the arts’ should become part of every schools curriculum at key stage 4 (14 - 16 year olds).

The report is on the Department for Education web site (get a copy here), and should be read by all involved in arts education. Not only does it provide a well thought out and secure vision for the future of the National Curriculum it also provides a wealth of supporting evidence that will help arts charities with funding bids for their programmes.

Michael Gove is to allow more time for the new National Curriculum to allow for the more radical reform of both the curriculum and qualifications that arise from the report. Further details of this are on the Department for Education web site.

The recommendations have not yet been agreed or adopted by the Government - so those advocating for the role of the arts in our schools should continue to push for the case and be part of the debate.