New GCSE Curriculum Review 2025 – How to Prepare for Major Changes

The GCSE curriculum review currently under way in England is set to reshape how GCSEs are taught and assessed. The government wants a broader, more flexible curriculum that still retains strong foundations in reading, writing and maths. The final report, expected in late 2025, will influence GCSE syllabuses from 2028 onward, but parents and students can start preparing now by understanding the review’s aims, anticipating subject changes and adopting strategies that emphasise deep learning over rote memorisation.

Why this matters

Since 2015, GCSEs have been based on linear exams taken at the end of the course and a knowledge‑rich curriculum. While these reforms improved rigour, they also intensified pressure on students: over half of those who sat exams in summer 2024 found it difficult or very difficult to cope with stress, and 63% of GCSE and A‑level students reported struggling during exams. Responding to concerns about mental health and the need for broader skills, the government commissioned Professor Becky Francis to lead a curriculum and assessment review. Its final recommendations will shape the next generation of GCSEs. Now is the time to understand what’s coming and how to prepare.

Understanding the Curriculum and Assessment Review

What is being reviewed?

The review examines both curriculum content and assessment methods for students aged 5–19 in England. Key aims include:

• Balancing depth and breadth: Maintaining the knowledge‑rich approach while ensuring the curriculum covers a wide range of subjects and skills.
• Closing attainment gaps: Addressing barriers to progress for disadvantaged students and those with special educational needs.
• Reducing assessment burdens: Considering concerns about the volume of exams during the GCSE phase.
• Promoting digital and media literacy: Integrating critical thinking, digital skills and modern media into the curriculum.
• Encouraging creativity and vocational options: Allowing greater choice beyond the current EBacc subjects, which some evidence suggests constrain student engagement and achievement.

The interim report published in March 2025 emphasised retaining the four key stages structure, preserving a knowledge‑rich core, and exploring changes to assessment volume. The final report, due autumn 2025, will provide detailed recommendations and a timeline for implementation.

Timeline of changes

• Autumn 2025: Final report published. The government issues responses and consults on implementation.
• 2026–2027: New subject specifications drafted; pilot programmes may begin.
• 2028 onwards: First teaching of reformed GCSEs likely begins. Students starting Year 9 in 2026 could be the first cohort following the new curriculum.

Given the long lead‑in, students currently in Year 8 or younger are most likely to be affected. However, some recommendations (such as reducing assessment load or enhancing digital skills) may influence teaching approaches sooner.

Key recommendations emerging from the review

While the final report is still pending, several themes have emerged from the interim report and expert commentary. Below we outline the most significant recommendations and what they might mean for GCSE students.

1. Broader curricula with more flexibility

Fewer mandatory EBacc subjects. Evidence submitted to the review suggests that the English Baccalaureate (EBacc) performance measure may restrict students’ choices, limiting time for vocational or arts subjects. A broader curriculum could free students to pursue creative, technical and vocational courses alongside core subjects.

Emphasis on transferable skills. Alongside knowledge-rich content, there is a push to embed skills such as digital literacy, problem solving, critical thinking and communication.

2. Changes to assessment methods

Reduction in high‑stakes exams. There are concerns about the volume of assessments at GCSE. The review is exploring modular or multi-modal assessment approaches, such as projects, presentations or portfolios, to reduce exam stress and better reflect real-life learning.

Year 8 reading check. Schools Week reported that the government is considering a reading check at the end of Year 8. This aims to ensure students have strong literacy before starting GCSEs, but some teachers worry about increased testing.

Digital exams. The review aims to incorporate digital assessments where appropriate, enabling more interactive and accessible testing.

3. Support for disadvantaged and SEND pupils

Targeted interventions. The review emphasises supporting pupils who face barriers to learning, including those from socio-economic disadvantage and students with special educational needs.

Mental health focus. With high levels of exam-related stress reported among students, the review is likely to recommend measures to support mental wellbeing throughout secondary education.

4. Retaining a knowledge‑rich core

While exploring flexibility, the review reiterates that a solid grounding in reading, writing and mathematics remains non-negotiable. Future GCSE curricula will still require mastery of fundamental knowledge, even as assessment formats diversify.

What does this mean for GCSE students and parents?

Adapting to a broader curriculum

If the review leads to a wider range of subjects and less prescriptive EBacc requirements, students may have more freedom to choose courses that align with their strengths. However, this also places responsibility on families to make informed decisions.

Pro tip: Begin exploring interests early. Encourage your child to engage in extracurricular activities like coding clubs, art, design, languages to gauge what they enjoy. When new GCSE options become available, they’ll be better prepared to choose.

Emphasising skills alongside knowledge

Digital and media literacy will play a bigger role in the new curriculum. Students should build competence with digital tools (spreadsheets, coding platforms, digital presentations) and practise problem solving and critical thinking. Encourage activities that develop these skills, such as online coding courses, debating societies or creative writing.

Preparing for changes in assessment

If modular assessments become more common, students will need strong time management and organisation skills to track multiple deadlines. They will also need to adapt to new formats like group projects or open‑book exams.

Action steps:

1. Practice extended projects or independent research assignments at home.
2. Use past papers to stay familiar with existing exams while exploring alternative formats (e.g., portfolios).
3. Maintain a revision diary or digital planner to track assignments and deadlines.

Supporting mental health

High exam stress levels highlight the importance of mental wellbeing. Parents should watch for signs of anxiety, encourage regular breaks, promote a balanced lifestyle and seek support when needed. Schools may introduce more mental health support as part of the review.

How to prepare now: practical strategies

While we await the final report, there are actions students and parents can take to stay ahead. Below are strategies to build resilience and readiness for whatever the new curriculum brings.

1. Strengthen foundational skills

The review emphasises strong foundations in reading, writing and maths. Encourage your child to:

• Read widely: Fiction, non-fiction, news articles and academic journals expand vocabulary and critical thinking.
• Practice writing: Essays, reports, creative pieces and persuasive arguments improve literacy and communication skills.
• Master core mathematics: Number sense, algebra and geometry remain essential for higher-level problem solving.

2. Build digital competence

Digital assessments and media literacy will be more prominent. Encourage learning through:

• Coding basics: Explore Python, Scratch or JavaScript; many resources are free online.
• Spreadsheet skills: Teach your child to use formulas, charts and data analysis tools.
• Multimedia projects: Create videos, podcasts or infographics to develop communication and technical skills.

3. Develop research and project skills

Modular assessment may involve projects and portfolios. Students can practise by:

• Pursuing independent projects: Choose a topic of interest, set goals and deadlines, and produce a report or presentation.
• Joining clubs and competitions: Debating, science fairs, robotics clubs and Young Enterprise offer opportunities to work on projects and collaborate.
• Reflecting on work: Maintain a learning journal to evaluate strengths and areas for improvement.

4. Stay informed and involved

The review process is evolving, so staying informed helps you anticipate changes. Parents and students should:

• Monitor official updates: Follow the Department for Education and exam boards (AQA, Edexcel, OCR) for announcements.
• Attend school information evenings: Schools will update families on the curriculum changes and subject options.
• Discuss with teachers: Ask subject teachers how the review might affect course content and assessments.
• Engage with tutors: Our tutors at RS Remote Tutoring keep up to date with specification changes and adapt lessons accordingly. They can offer guidance on new skills and assessment types.

5. Plan flexible subject choices

If the new curriculum increases flexibility, consider a mix of academic and creative or technical subjects. Discuss with your child what careers or university courses they might be interested in. Balanced choices can keep options open without overloading them.

6. Focus on wellbeing

Preparing academically is important, but mental health should not be neglected. Encourage:

• Regular exercise and outdoor time: Physical activity boosts mood and concentration.
• Sleep hygiene: Teens need 8 to 10 hours of sleep; consistent bedtime routines help.
• Mindfulness techniques: Breathing exercises, yoga or meditation can relieve stress.
• Social connections: Encourage your child to maintain friendships and talk about worries.

Potential subject changes: what to expect

Although final subject lists will emerge post-report, experts anticipate the following shifts:

Greater value for creative and technical subjects

The review aims to recognise the importance of arts, design technology and vocational courses. New GCSEs may include modules in media production, coding, digital design and entrepreneurship, complementing core academic subjects.

Pro tip: Encourage your child to experiment with creative software (e.g., Adobe Creative Cloud, Blender) or join arts and design clubs. Even if they don’t pursue an arts GCSE, these skills enhance problem-solving and innovation.

Restructured science pathways

Under the separate Curriculum for Wales, The Sciences double award will integrate physics, chemistry and biology. England’s review may consider similar interdisciplinary science courses to encourage holistic understanding. This could mean fewer separate papers and more synoptic assessments.

Modern foreign language reforms

There is ongoing reform of language GCSEs to emphasise phonics and practical communication. The curriculum review may push for continuity between GCSE and A-level, addressing gaps and promoting cultural understanding.

Digital literacy modules

Expect modules covering coding, digital citizenship and online research techniques. Assessment may include programming challenges or digital projects.

Preparing for Key Stage 4 subject choices

Subject selection at Key Stage 4 (Year 9 options) will become more important if the curriculum broadens. Here’s how to navigate the decision:

1. Understand compulsory subjects: English, maths and science will remain mandatory. Students must also continue studying physical education and citizenship.
2. Identify interests and strengths: Encourage your child to list subjects they enjoy and excel at. Use school taster sessions to explore new subjects.
3. Consider career paths: Research universities and employers to understand which GCSEs matter for future courses or apprenticeships. For example, engineering careers require strong maths and science; journalism benefits from English and languages.
4. Balance workload: Ensure a mix of challenging and enjoyable subjects. Too many heavy academic courses can cause burnout, while too many practical subjects may limit academic options later.
5. Seek advice: Consult subject teachers, career advisers and tutors. Ask about predicted grades, effort levels and course demands.

FAQs

Our Final thoughts on The Curriculum Change

Educational reforms can feel daunting. However, the curriculum and assessment review aims to create a richer, more inclusive GCSE experience that equips young people with the skills they need for life and work. By strengthening core skills, exploring interests, adopting digital competencies and staying informed, students and parents can turn upcoming changes into opportunities.

At RS Remote Tutoring, we help families at every stage of their educational journey. Whether your child needs support with existing GCSE specifications or guidance for the forthcoming curriculum changes, our tutors provide personalised teaching tailored to their needs. We can help your child build the knowledge, skills and confidence to thrive in a changing educational landscape.

Ready to future-proof your child’s GCSE journey?Book a free consultation today and discover how our expert GCSE tutors can help your child succeed now and prepare for what’s coming.