Creativity Returns to the Classroom as England Redefines Education

England’s classrooms are about to look very different.

Under the government’s sweeping new education reforms, children will soon learn everything from spotting fake news to understanding artificial intelligence — all while the arts make a comeback at the centre of school life.

Announced by Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson, the new national curriculum is being hailed as a once-in-a-generation overhaul that blends knowledge, creativity and practical life skills.

The goal: to ensure every young person leaves school ready for the real world.

“It’s more crucial than ever that young people can face the challenges of today and seize tomorrow’s opportunities,” Phillipson said. “From reading to digital literacy, these reforms will help them thrive.”

Arts and Creativity Reborn

After years of pressure from teachers and cultural leaders, arts GCSEs will now have equal status with humanities and languages.

Every pupil will also benefit from a “core enrichment entitlement” — a guaranteed programme including civic engagement, arts and culture, nature and adventure, sport and life skills.

Arts advocates have praised the move as a “huge step forward”, saying it will help rebuild creativity and confidence in schools.

AI, Data and Future Skills

Beyond art and culture, the curriculum is looking ahead to the 2030s economy.

Schools will be encouraged to offer triple science GCSE, and a new qualification in data science and artificial intelligence will be introduced for 16–18-year-olds.

The idea is to prepare young people for jobs that don’t yet exist — from ethical AI design to climate tech innovation.

Reading, Writing, Reality

To strengthen literacy, a new Year 8 reading test and improved Year 6 writing assessments will help identify pupils who need support early.

Primary students will also learn financial literacy and critical thinking, tackling misinformation and digital overload in a changing media landscape.

A Voice for Every Student

A new oracy framework will give teachers strategies to develop students’ speaking skills — ensuring the next generation can communicate ideas clearly, confidently and respectfully.

A Curriculum for the 21st Century

Set for rollout in September 2028, the new curriculum represents more than a policy shift — it’s a philosophical change.

Education in England is moving from rote learning to resilience, creativity and adaptability.

As one arts leader put it:

“This isn’t just about what children know — it’s about who they become.”