From April 2026, updates have been made to the designing the 14 to 16 curriculum offer section of the 14-16 Learning guidance as part of the ongoing review of the Curriculum for Wales framework guidance.

The updated guidance:

signposts schools to consider opportunities available through the Seren Academy to support learner reflection, progress and post 16 planning
reflects the availability of VCSEs, the Skills Suite, the Personal Project and Foundation qualifications (alongside GCSEs) from 2027
reflects the revised Made for Wales Science GCSEs, including expectations around breadth of learning, access and the continued availability of separate science GCSEs
clarifies expectations around self-evaluation and improvement, including signposting to the Youth Engagement Progression Framework
confirms new reporting arrangements in relation to the 14 to 16 Learner Entitlement Indicators Framework (LEIF), with further information explaining how the LEIF aligns with wider evaluation and improvement arrangements

These updates aim to support clarity and coherence for schools as they design and evaluate their 14 to 16 curriculum offer.

Vision

The four purposes are the starting point and aspiration for schools’ curriculum design. They should guide a school’s vision and process of curriculum and assessment design. The aim of a school’s curriculum is to support its learners to become:

ambitious, capable learners, ready to learn throughout their lives
enterprising, creative contributors, ready to play a full part in life and work
ethical, informed citizens of Wales and the world
healthy, confident individuals, ready to lead fulfilling lives as valued members of society

Overarching guidance