UK government drops ICT curriculum
Teachers given power to choose information and communication technology focus
The UK government has scrapped the set information and communication technology (ICT) curriculum, giving teachers the power to plan their own lessons.
"Overall, there was a broad consensus amongst respondents that the existing Programmes of Study and Attainment Targets for ICT were not fit for purpose," said the Department for Eductation's consultation document.
"Under the new regulations schools will still be required to teach ICT at all key stages as part of the National Curriculum but teachers will have the freedom and flexibility to design an ICT curriculum that is best for their pupils."
The consultation was launched on January 18 and closed on April 11, with a public consultation now open until July 11.
"Great news announced today by Gov to scrap the ICT [curriculum] so schools will be free to teach Computer Science from Sept," commented UKIE deputy chair Ian Livingstone via Twitter, who is a committed supporter of computer science teaching in schools.