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Guidance on cross-curriculum dimensions

13 Mar 2009 09:44 AM

QCA launches guidance on cross-curriculum dimensions

QCA today published two curriculum planning guides for secondary schools. The first guide, entitled Sustainable Development in Action, will help teachers build sustainable development into their pupils' learning experience. The second guide focuses on incorporating the seven cross-curriculum dimensions of the new secondary curriculum into everyday school lessons.

QCA is launching the planning guides at a National Conference for Dimensions in conjunction with the British Council. The conference will feature workshops, discussions and demonstrations that showcase how teachers can make the dimensions a central feature of their curriculum planning.

The cross-curriculum dimensions were developed to support the new secondary curriculum that was launched in September 2008. The dimensions reflect some of the major ideas and challenges that face individuals and society, and can help provide links for learning across the whole curriculum. They are:

  • Identity and cultural diversity
  • Healthy lifestyles
  • Community participation
  • Enterprise
  • Global dimension and sustainable development
  • Technology and the media
  • Creativity and critical thinking

Mick Waters, Director of Curriculum at QCA, said:

"The cross-curriculum dimensions are essential tools to help young people make sense of the wider world. They should permeate the curriculum and the life of a school. Our planning guides will help teachers put the dimensions at the heart of lessons and ensure that learners understand the challenges that face the world today, such as creating a sustainable future for the planet.

"QCA has developed an extensive programme of work with partners such as the British Council, Make Your Mark and BBC School Report to provide opportunities for schools to develop the dimensions across the curriculum."

Notes to editors

1. Download the Cross-curriculum dimensions planning guide.
2. Download the Sustainable development in action planning guide (under the publications and websites tab)
3. For enquiries please contact John Levitt on 020 7509 6789, or 07827 879 263 outside office hours.