Primary National Strategy
The National Literacy Strategy's Framework and the National Numeracy Strategy's Framework were introduced into primary schools in 1998 and 1999 respectively. Since then, there have been significant improvements in levels of achievement in literacy and mathematics in primary schools. In 2006, the National Strategies reviewed the frameworks and developed a new Primary Framework designed to ensure that schools develop effective personalisation of learning, while providing the right support and opportunities tailored to the individual needs of every child.
The National Strategies, Primary for teaching literacy and mathematics provides teachers with a clear set of age-related outcomes linked to learning progression in literacy and mathematics. There is also greater cohesion with the Early Years Foundation Stage and improved progression in learning from birth to 11 years. The Primary Framework for teaching literacy and mathematics is the key vehicle for implementing the recommendations of the ‘Rose Report’ on early reading and the development of phonics-based programmes in early years and primary settings. In 2008 a substantial section supporting assessment and AfL was added providing guidance and exemplification for assessing pupils’ progress through levels 2, 3 and 4. A CPD section has also been added providing details of all the Primary Framework CPD and material to support schools and LA teams.
Literacy and mathematics are at the core of the National Strategy, Primary, which employs experts in both subjects to lead the national programme and to provide challenge and support to local authority staff to enable them to work effectively with schools to improve standards in both subject areas.
Linked to this, the National Strategies is also supporting the ‘Every Child a Reader’ programme and manages the expansion of this programme and the development of a parallel programme in relation to numeracy, ‘Every Child Counts’
You can also see the Primary work in action by visiting the National Strategies area of the Standards Site at: