The curriculum in many primary schools, in recent history, became worryingly narrowed such that children were being prepared for tests more than their lives were being enriched with a variety of knowledge, skills and experiences. It is clear that it is the latter that enables them to perform well in tests and in life, so the time for change is now! This book seeks to empower teachers and school leaders to better understand what is meant by 'curriculum' and what a creative educational diet might look like in each individual school.
The book explores curriculum intent, implementation and impact. It includes leaders' reflection boxes and practical suggestions for busy teachers. Emma L. Palastanga analyses the need for a broad and balanced curriculum, against the limitations of cramming for success, and delves deep into the process of curriculum planning, delivery and evaluation, using Ofsted’s terminology. Examples of lessons and a range of different approaches are shared throughout the book.
A Creative Primary Curriculum for All will give all subject leaders, classroom teachers and teacher trainees the confidence to provide a rich, exciting and varied curriculum, meeting the needs of learners whilst also letting the craft of teaching and individual inspiration shine.
Chapter 1. Introduction Chapter 2. A Brief History of the Curriculum Chapter 3. Constraints, Creativity, Carte Blanche? Chapter 4. A Broad and Balanced Curriculum Chapter 5. Curriculum Champions Chapter 6. A Creative Curriculum for All Chapter 7. Intent, Implementation and Impact Chapter 8. A range of approaches Chapter 9. Homework Chapter 10. Curriculum Provision during a pandemic Chapter 11. Conclusion
Biography
Emma L. Palastanga, a passionate educator for more than twenty years, has worked in different school settings as a teacher and school leader instigating change. She has also worked as an Ofsted inspector evaluating the quality of education. Emma has experienced different approaches to teaching and learning and felt the pressure of delivering results.
"A Creative Primary Curriculum For All is a wonderfully written book which explores the primary curriculum in detail. This book will support early career teachers as well as more experienced teachers and curriculum leaders. It includes lots of ideas to implement in school which are backed up by practice and theory."
Jacqueline Westgate, Teacher
"If education does not hold creative thinking at its heart then schools become heartless places because creativity is central to living a worthwhile and positive life. This book will unlock doors for many who believe in creativity but are uncertain how to proceed."
Pie Corbett, Teacher, Poet, Storyteller and Creator of 'Talk for Writing'
"Palastanga’s brilliance shines in this curriculum masterpiece. A Creative Curriculum for All helps school leaders think about the curriculum intent, implementation and impact in the most supportive way. As a school leader, I will use this excellent text to support middle leaders in thinking about the curriculum. Each chapter is skilfully written and poses questions at the end to make leaders think about the curriculum in school. I personally believe that all schools should have this book in their CPD tool kit to support subject leaders, middle leaders and those who are looking at progressing their career into headship. Outstanding - 5 stars."
Spencer Allen, Head Teacher
"It is a frustration of many primary school teachers that they feel they don't have room on the timetable for creativity, but Palastanga maintains that's simply untrue. In this book she dispels myths around prescribed time allocations and rigid rules to demonstrate practical approaches for incorporating creativity to inspire young children who need to develop these skills for the good of all our futures... At this moment in time, this book is very much needed." - Dawn Woods, The School Librarian
