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In this episode of the Talking D&T podcast, I describe the recent curriculum and assessment review panel meeting I attended in Cambridgeshire. I explore the ongoing call for evidence and its implications for design and technology education.

One key insight from the meeting was the emphasis on evolution, not revolution, in curriculum changes. This approach considers the financial constraints and the current strain on the teaching workforce. Another significant point was the focus on social justice, highlighting the need to address barriers faced by disadvantaged students and those with special educational needs.

We also discussed the potential impact of making the national curriculum mandatory for all schools, including academies. This could standardise educational aims and content, ensuring a more cohesive approach across the country.

For D&T teachers, this episode offers valuable reflections on how these changes might affect your practice. Consider how you can contribute to the call for evidence by identifying specific pinch points in the curriculum that impact your students. Reflect on what works well in your teaching and what could be improved, and think about how these insights can inform your responses.

Listeners, especially those in the UK, will find this episode particularly relevant, but I encourage our international audience to tune in as well. The themes of equity and effective curriculum design are universal.

Acknowledgement:
Some of the supplementary content for this podcast episode was crafted with the assistance of Claude, an AI language model developed by Anthropic. While the core content is based on the actual conversation and my editorial direction, Claude helped in refining and structuring information to best serve listeners. This collaborative approach allows me to provide you with concise, informative, and engaging content to complement each episode.

• Event for those involved in teaching design and technology in primary and secondary schools (6th November). Registration closes on 4th November.
• TeacherTapp
• Podcast Episodes mentioned:
  • Interview with Michelle Gregson, General Secretary from NSEAD.
  • Previous episode with Tony Ryan discussing the place of design and technology in the curriculum.

Join my online workshop on 6 November at 4pm to prepare your response to the government’s curriculum review. Get insights, discuss key issues, and learn how to submit your views effectively. Your expertise matters – make it count before the 22 November deadline!
Register NOW!

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