History pupils 'lacking the big picture'
Friday, 20 Jul 2007 15:34
Pupils have gaps in knowledge, report says
Pupils in English schools do not have a broad overview of history, a new report has warned today.
Ofsted's review of history teaching in primary and secondary schools found that gaps in knowledge have been created by too great a focus on a relatively small number of issues.
In order to raise standards the education watchdog advises that the curriculum be revised so that pupils have a compulsory core knowledge with more flexible elements that respond to local needs.
The report also warns that teaching is geared too much towards aspects of English history. Ofsted claims that the remainder of the UK is largely overlooked, as are major European and world themes.
Including these issues in the curriculum would help to raise standards, help pupils understand the contemporary world and counter prejudice, the report concludes.
Chief education inspector Christine Gilbert said broadening the curriculum should improve quality of history in primary schools and inspire more pupils to study the subject at GCSE and beyond.
"A history curriculum that is inclusive and truly reflects both the unity and diversity of the United Kingdom and respects the stories of different people is a desirable aim," she added.
The Conservatives have seized on the report as underling the "dangers in [children, schools and families secretary] Ed Balls' new approach to the curriculum".
"The changes he announced last week would mean more of the flabby, woolly, 'theme-based' teaching this report warns us about," said shadow Children's secretary Michael Gove.