What young people think of the new curriculum

I am a freelance journalist for Xcellence magazine and for my contribution to this issue, I wanted to find out how my peers feel about the new mandatory curriculum, that includes Black, Asian and minority ethnic communities, contributions and history. These are the questions I posed to Andrew and Sophia, both year 7 pupils at my school Corpus Christi. Here is what they had to say.

What do you think about the new curriculum changes, where the contributions of Black, Asian and minority ethnic communities are now made mandatory?

A: I think that the changes are very important to all pupils in schools across Wales.

S: I think the changes are really good, because we will get to hear about other people’s history, not just ours.

Do you understand why these changes have been made to the new curriculum?

A: Yes, I do understand, but I wish they had been made a lot sooner. Everyone’s history is important, so these changes are a good thing.

S: Yes, I think the new changes have been made so that everyone feels welcomed and to know that they are acknowledged.

Is there anything that excites you about the new curriculum?

A: I am most interested in learning more about the origins of my culture and how diversity has grown in Wales.

S: The one thing that excites me about the new curriculum is that I get to understand more about the different backgrounds of the people around me.

Do you think it is important that the curriculum reflects inclusivity?

A: Yes, it is very important that everyone is included, because history is history and it should be taught truthfully.

Sophie Stonehouse Year 7 pupil at Corpus Christi High School

S: Yes, I think it is important to be inclusive because, even if you cannot relate, you can find out more by watching videos online and read stuff to help support the new material.

What do you already know about Black and ethnic history?

A: I don’t really know that much, to be honest, but I am excited to learn more.

S: I know quite a bit, as my primary school used to teach us things, but I am looking forward to hearing more at this age, so that I gain more of an understanding.