The document discusses the upcoming changes to the UK secondary school curriculum between 2008-2010, including the introduction of a new KS3 curriculum focused on skills rather than prescribed content. It provides information on the support available for core and foundation subjects from regional advisers, subject associations, and online resources. It also discusses the concept of a "compelling learning experience" in geography which engages and challenges students through relevant, collaborative activities.

1. Alan Parkinson Chartered Geographer Regional Subject Adviser for Geography, New Secondary Curriculum Project

2. The next few years…

3. What’s coming up ? 2008: New Year 7 & ‘AS’ 2009: New Year 8, ‘A2’ and Year 10 GCSE 2010: New Year 9 and Year 11 GCSE Plus: Diplomas and other vocational changes

4. Mick Waters, QCA Watch THE BIG PICTURE VIDEO….

5. What’s going to happen at KS3 ? A new curriculum: focused on aims and skills, with more flexibility (less prescribed content) and more opportunity for personalising learning. Concept-led curriculum (see suggested planning sheet by Professor David Lambert)

7. What support is available ? Each subject has been given some support which is provided by QCA in association with the DCSF, subject associations and a charity called CfBT I have been appointed as Regional Subject Adviser for Geography – contact your subject association UK split into regions…

9. CORE SUBJECTS Advice at subject leader development meetings Support from local strategy managers and consultants Key Stage 3 framework Electronic planning tools FOUNDATION SUBJECTS Regional training events led by national subject leaders And regional subject advisers Online support on QCA website

10. Information on the Subjects

11. Compelling learning experiences A compelling learning experience is where students enjoy and actively participate in a lesson. They are stimulated to find out more about real places and people. They feel challenged to help shape their world. A compelling learning experience is one that engages the learner in a relevant and interesting geographical topic or issue. It challenges their previous conceptions, moves them towards new understanding, develops new skills and leaves them with a thirst for more. A compelling learning experience is one that engages students who enjoy learning for a purpose in and out of the classroom. A compelling learning experience is engaging, enjoyable and challenging (stretching the students’ imagination). Students will want to take things further, or do something about what they have learned. It is relevant, it should start local or of personal interest but extend out further. A compelling learning experience is when students are involved, through collaborative, relevant, emotive activities, with genuine purpose, enabling them to connect it with their own lives before transferring it to their experiences outside the classroom.

12. QCA Curriculum Site Contains: Online case studies, guidance, planning tools and materials A curriculum handbook Links to PoS for each subject Flexible resource pack will also be produced by Specialist Schools and Academies Trust

13. Check the QCA website Find out who your RSA is Start planning NOW… Tap into any local networks For more information

14. For images Thanks to Flickr Users MrsMagic OriginalArnie Mike nl GeoBlogs