NESA Curriculum Reform

CATHERINE PHOON HEAD OF SPECIALISED PROGRAMS

My role at NESA was working as a part of a team on curriculum reform. I was placed on the PDHPE team. This involved working with a number of teachers across all sectors from around the entire state.

This is the first comprehensive reform of the NSW curriculum in three decades, starting with the foundations for our youngest students.

As a team we went through the current Kindergarten – Year 6 syllabus, discussing essential components of learning, before making decisions regarding the sequence of learning and developing the continuum.

In addition, I had a quality assurance role – making sure that teachers are using the principles of universal design for learning in syllabus planning so that all students are given an opportunity to access the curriculum and reach their potential.

I wrote the early access points for prior Early Stage 1. This is the first time that the Government has included these students. Access content points provide opportunities for students to build knowledge, understanding and skills towards the Early Stage 1 outcomes. •

Ms Elizabeth Stone reflects on the legacy

Mr Christopher Daunt Watney leaves behind at Queenwood as he says farewell to his role as Deputy Principal and career in teaching to embark on his next adventure in retirement.