The new report from the Royal Society of Arts on the possible drawbacks of curricular freedom makes interesting reading (“Curricular freedom or a poisoned chalice?”, 16 March). How this squares with the new demands to impose systematic phonics in early years and primary training (“Satisfy trainee teachers in phonics or face Ofsted”, 16 March) is unclear.
This should also be seen in the context of the Early Years Foundation Stage curriculum, now under DfE revision. Early Childhood Action is in tune with the new spirit of freedom, but we won’t hold our breath over the official reception our framework will receive.
Richard House, Founder of Early Childhood Action.