Secondary Education
What does citizenship education mean for secondary schools?
Citizenship is inherently active: we can only truly learn about democracy and participation by being encouraged to play an active role in school and society from an early age. The success of Citizenship reflects and is reflected in the whole school ethos.
The new programme of study for Citizenship education in secondary schools recognises the excellent work that is already taking place in many schools and provides a framework to build on this. The programme focuses on:
- Increasing political literacy
- Developing the skills of debate and enquiry
- Encouraging active participation.
Sources of Information and Links
Citizenship education became a statutory entitlement at Key Stages 3 and 4 in September 2002. To assist in teaching the subject you may find the information and links below helpful.
- The Programme of Study can be downloaded from the National Curriculum website. It is brief compared to the National Curriculum for other subjects because it has been designed to be a 'light touch' subject. Citizenship education can be taught across the curriculum, through discrete lessons or through whole school initiatives; most schools are choosing to use a combination of these three models.
- QCA has produced schemes of work which are not statutory but which are designed to provide ideas and guidance for your own planning.
- You will find other guidance on the DfES Citizenship website and OFSTED provides guidance for inspectors.
Information for Citizenship Co-ordinators
Citizenship is an exciting and challenging subject to co-ordinate. Your post will lead you to work with all pupils and staff as well as outside agencies.
You may find it useful to download our Checklist for Citizenship Co-ordinators (PDF file 41KB) and tick off the various elements as you complete them. You will need to do an audit to find out what is already being covered and where there are opportunities for further coverage. We would recommend a Staff Audit (PDF file 45KB) and a Student Audit (PDF file 41KB).
You may choose to join the Association for Citizenship Teaching, a professional subject association for those involved in Citizenship education.
Resources
The Institute for Citizenship has produced a wide range of citizenship education resources. They have all been developed through close consultation with teachers and pupils and are practical and engaging. We place a strong emphasis on active learning. Details may be found in the resources section.