Exploring the Shifting Landscape of Education: Emerging Trends and Paradigm Challenges

Education is constantly redefining itself, challenging traditional paradigms, and embracing new trends that reshape the way we perceive teaching and learning. With each passing year, novel approaches and ideas emerge, prompting us to question our existing understanding of education.

Join us and our Education Consultant Fergal Moane , in taking a small peak into the emerging trends that we all face.

How is the curriculum at schools evolving to prepare students for the jobs of the future?

In the ever-evolving world of education, a contentious debate divides experts into two camps: those who champion a 'knowledge-rich curriculum' and those who advocate for a 'skills-based curriculum.' While the former argues that a strong knowledge base is essential, the latter contends that excessive focus on rote learning stifles critical competencies.

“My own view is that it is impossible to predict what the jobs of the future might be (when I was at school, I didn't think one of my jobs would be quantitative analyst for credit derivatives in investment banking!) so the best we can do is to prepare students with a good base level of knowledge and the skills to apply this and continue to be lifelong learners, being adaptable and resilient as they go. Things like the introduction of a more formal personal development curriculum can help with the life skills part of the curriculum.“

Is there a visible shift towards more emphasis on digital literacy and STEM subjects?

Computing is a designated subject within the National Curriculum, comprising three fundamental elements: digital literacy, information technology, and computer science. Following the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, students and educators have progressively acclimated to the integration of technology into their daily lives. Platforms like Microsoft Teams and Google Meet have gained prominence in educational settings, often serving as the primary means of delivering classes.

This proficiency is advantageous, given the growing prevalence of hybrid work environments in many workplaces. Data from FFT Education Datalab reveals a notable uptick in A-level entries for STEM subjects over the past five years, while entries in most arts subjects have experienced a decline. To counter this trend, there has been an effort to expand STEM to STEAM, acknowledging that many STEM-related careers may also require artistic and design skills.

“I would argue that we have to maintain support for a broad curriculum that includes the Arts in schools. Creative industries continue to be a growth area for the UK and we are world leaders in film production, music, digital media and other creative businesses, adding £25bn to the UK trade balance according to the creative industries council.“

How are educators being equipped to adapt to changing educational paradigms?

The education system has witnessed a profound shift towards recognising the essential role of teachers in preparing future generations. Acknowledging the need for consistent support and professional development after initial teacher training, the government has embarked on a journey of reform.

“The current government deserves credit for addressing teacher training issues, such as inconsistent support and the need for teacher development. The Early Career Framework, despite some criticism regarding workload, has supported teacher development in behaviour management, pedagogy, curriculum, and assessment. National Professional Qualifications have been positively received, especially with full funding for state school teachers in England. Teaching School Hubs have enhanced teacher training and professional development, facilitating networking and training opportunities. However, the recent review of Initial Teacher Training, resulting in the withdrawal of respected providers and universities, seems counterintuitive, considering the Department for Education's failure to meet recruitment targets for both secondary and primary teachers this year.“

Planned changes in education proposed by the government?

In early October, Prime Minister Rishi Sunak officially announced a novel educational qualification named the "Advanced British Standard" designed for students aged 16 to 18. Sunak claimed that this qualification would amalgamate A-levels and T-levels into a unified credential for students leaving school.

While it remains uncertain when or if these proposed changes will be implemented read more about the possible advantages and disadvantages here.

“The proposals around the Advanced British Standard are interesting, but the devil will be in the detail. Keeping additional breadth post-16 is hardly without precedent (Scotland, Ireland, the International Baccalaureate) and this model can work. But without investment in extra teachers and funding to support the increased contact time (post-16 has the lowest funding of any key stage and has been eroded (reduction of 11% in real terms since 2010), this promise can't be delivered. Extra maths is impossible when schools struggle to recruit maths teachers for pre-16 education!“

In the realm of emerging trends in education, there exist myriad questions worthy of discussion. Our objective is to address several critical areas that we've recognised as high-priority. We invite you to share your vision of the future and the responses you would offer to our four questions.