Response to Curriculum and Assessment Review
Today (Wednesday 5 November 2025) Professor Becky Francis published the widely anticipated review of the national curriculum and school assessment process in England – Building a world class curriculum for all.
Arts Council England gave evidence to the review setting out a coherent, compelling and comprehensive argument for the role creativity and culture can play in helping our children to thrive at school and throughout their lives, to broaden horizons and raise aspirations, and to support the continued success of our creative industries and wider economy.
Sir Nicholas Serota, chair of Arts Council England, said:
“This is an investment in the young people whose talent will propel our arts, culture and creative industries forwards in the coming decades.
The government’s recognition of the importance of a creative education in all our schools, for the benefit of every child from every background in every part of the country, is key to unlocking that talent.
I’m delighted that today’s announcement also recognises the value of cultural education subjects in the curriculum alongside rich extra-curricular cultural opportunities.
At Arts Council England, we look forward to working with the government to support schools, teachers, creative professionals and cultural organisations in delivering these bold plans that will give young people across the country new opportunities for a more creative life for many years to come.”
Dr Darren Henley, Chief Executive Arts Council England said:
“This is a great day for the next generation of creative talent in England. Subjects like art and design, dance, drama and music play a unique role in nurturing fully rounded human beings.
Today’s announcement recognises that they are a necessary part of every young person’s school life, giving our young creators and performers the skills to invent and to innovate in ways that only they can imagine.
I can’t wait to see and hear the stories they have to tell.”