Citizenship Education in England

The Curriculum
Citizenship aims to equip young people with the knowledge, skills and understanding to play an effective role in public and democratic life. Citizenship encourages students to take an interest in political and social issues and to engage in discussion and debate. Pupils learn about politics, laws, justice, rights and democracy. They work together and learn to play an active role in the life of their schools, neighbourhoods and communities as active and responsible citizens.

Citizenship is a statutory National Curriculum foundation subject in secondary schools in England. It was introduced in 2002 following the recommendations of Bernard Crick and his advisory group which looked into the Teaching of Citizenship and Democracy in schools. Schools are required to address the National Curriculum programmes of study which set out what must be taught at key stages 3 and 4 for 11-16 year olds. The National Curriculum was revised in 2013 and new programmes of study are now available for first teaching from 2014.

In primary education (age 5-11) there is a joint non-statutory framework for Personal, Social and Health Education (PSHE) and Citizenship education. This has been in place since 2000.

Citizenship Studies qualifications are available as GCSE and A level to recognise pupil's attainment in the subject. Pupils study of all the key areas of the subject including: politics, democracy, government, law, human rights, equality and diversity. The GCSE qualification requires students to complete an active citizenship project where they investigate, campaign and take action on issues of concern to them in their communities and wider society.

Organisations supporting Citizenship Education