The National Curriculum in Wales is a Government framework that sets out what must be taught to children in school, and at what age. It is designed to provide a good grounding in language, mathematics and science.

The National Curriculum for primary schools is divided into separate Key Stages:

• Key Stage 1: Years 1 and 2, age 5 - 7.
• Key Stage 2: Years 3 - 6, age 7 - 11.

What is the Curriculum Cymreig?
The Curriculum Cymreig is apart of the curriculum that is special to Wales. It is designed to reflect the history, geography and culture of Wales and your locality.

The Curriculum Cymreig helps develop:

• a sense of belonging
• a sense of place and heritage
• an awareness of the importance of language and literature in the history and life of Wales
• an understanding of the creative and expressive arts in Wales.

What does the National Curriculum cover?
The National Curriculum covers a broad range of subjects, divided into core and foundation subjects.

Particular emphasis is given to the core subjects:

• English
• Welsh (as a first or second language)
• Mathematics
• Science

Foundation subjects:

• design and technology
• information technology
• history
• geography
• music
• art
• physical education.

Children must also study religious education according to whatever syllabus is laid down by their local authority. Most schools also provide personal and social education.

Standards
Each subject in the National Curriculum is divided into a series of levels on a national scale from 1 to 8. The level shows what standard a child has achieved. Levels are like the rungs of a ladder and children move up them from year to year.

• At the end of Key Stage 1, most children will be working within levels 1 to 3. The majority will reach level 2.
• At the end of Key Stage 2, most children will be working within levels 2 to 5. The majority will reach level 4.