Litdrive’s Response to the Curriculum and Assessment Review

The Department for Education has published its Curriculum and Assessment Review, setting out the most significant national curriculum changes since 2015. While the overall structure of English remains familiar, the review outlines several developments that will shape planning and provision over the coming years. As an associate subject association run by teachers for teachers, we aim to support colleagues in understanding these proposals and considering their implications for curriculum development.

Key developments for English:

Oracy and structured talk

A new national oracy framework places greater emphasis on purposeful classroom talk, discussion, and verbal reasoning.

GCSE Literature text review

The review proposes broader representation within the GCSE Literature text lists to ensure a wider range of high-quality texts for study.

Reduction in examination time

A reduction of approximately 10 per cent in total exam time is recommended to promote greater depth of study and reduce unnecessary assessment load.

Year 8 reading test

The introduction of a reading assessment in Year 8 aims to support earlier identification of students who may need targeted intervention.

Recognition of enrichment

Experiences such as drama, debate clubs, and wider cultural engagement are highlighted as integral to a rich English curriculum rather than optional additions. 

Implications for English departments

Although the review maintains continuity in many areas, the proposals will require considered adjustment within schools. Subject leaders may wish to explore:

• the integration of structured oracy opportunities across Key Stages;
• the potential impact of revised GCSE text lists on curriculum breadth;
• approaches to embedding new diagnostic reading assessments;
• the role of enrichment within units of learning. 

Departments will move at different paces, but thoughtful planning will support manageable, sustainable implementation over time.

How Litdrive will support members

Litdrive’s work is grounded in teacher-created materials and community knowledge-sharing. Over the coming months, we will align our support with the areas highlighted within the review. This will include:

• curated classroom materials and member-shared examples that reflect the renewed focus on oracy, diverse texts, and diagnostic reading;
• opportunities for professional discussion and reflection through our online communities and CPD events;
• development of CPD that supports subject leaders to make informed decisions about curriculum sequencing, enrichment, and assessment practice. 

Our aim is to ensure that teachers and leaders feel informed, supported, and able to approach implementation in a measured and confident way.

Looking ahead

The revised English curriculum is expected in spring 2027, with implementation from September 2028. The timeline allows for careful planning, and Litdrive will continue to monitor developments and share clear, accessible guidance as further detail emerges.

As a community of English teachers, we remain committed to collaborative, thoughtful curriculum development. We will continue to work alongside colleagues across the country as the implications of the review become clearer and as departments begin to shape their next steps.

By Nikki Carlin, Strategic Director, Litdrive