Curriculum policy: model and examples
If you're reviewing your curriculum, use our model document to update your curriculum policy. Plus, see examples from primary, secondary and special schools, and know where to go for more information on your requirements if you're an independent school.
Contents
Download our model policy
Our model:
- Takes account of relevant requirements, guidance and good practice
- Is aimed at maintained schools and academies, but can be adapted to suit other settings (if you wish to use it in a different setting, we recommend you check it against any requirements or considerations specific to your context and adapt it accordingly)
- Is approved by Forbes Solicitors
Please note: unless you're an independent school (in which case, see the final section below), you're not required to have a curriculum policy and Ofsted doesn't expect you to have one. Read about how Ofsted inspects your curriculum and see this article to stay up to date with all things Ofsted.
School examples
Primary maintained schools
Primary academies
- Hookstone Chase Primary School, North Yorkshire
- Bowes Primary School, Enfield
- GEMS Twickenham Primary Academy, Richmond upon Thames
Secondary maintained schools
Secondary academies
Special schools
- Primary: Bright Futures School for children with autism, Oldham
- Secondary: Woodlands Secondary School in Luton
Independent schools: your curriculum policy requirements are different
You're required to have a written curriculum policy that meets the requirements set out in Part 1 of the schedule to The Education (Independent School Standards) Regulations 2014.
You can find detailed guidance on each line of the regulations, and what they mean for your curriculum policy, in Part 1 of this DfE guidance on the independent school standards.
Examples from independent schools