Curriculum for Wales 2026–2027
From September 2026 the Curriculum for Wales applies to all learners aged 3–16, including Year 11 for the first time. This page explains the framework that schools use and that education.wales follows when teaching you.
Why the curriculum changed
The old subject-based national curriculum was replaced by a more flexible framework. Schools design their own curriculum using mandatory “Statements of What Matters” inside six Areas of Learning and Experience. The aim is deeper understanding, stronger skills, and learners who are ready for life, work and further study.
The Four Purposes
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
Progression Steps (age groups)
Learning is described in five Progression Steps rather than fixed year-group content. These give a rough idea of expected progress:
| Step | Typical ages | School years |
|---|---|---|
| Progression Step 1 | 3–5 years | Nursery / Reception |
| Progression Step 2 | 5–8 years | Years 1–3 |
| Progression Step 3 | 8–11 years | Years 4–6 |
| Progression Step 4 | 11–14 years | Years 7–9 |
| Progression Step 5 | 14–16 years | Years 10–11 |
School term dates 2026–2027
Most local authorities follow these dates. Powys has minor variations. INSET days are set by individual schools.
Autumn 2026
- Start: Tuesday 1 September 2026
- Half term: 26–30 October 2026
- End: Friday 18 December 2026
Spring 2027
- Start: Monday 4 January 2027
- Half term: 8–12 February 2027
- End: Friday 19 March 2027
Summer 2027
- Start: Monday 5 April 2027
- Half term: 31 May – 4 June 2027
- End: Tuesday 20 July 2027
New and updated GCSEs from 2026
Several Made-for-Wales GCSEs are available for first teaching from September 2026, including:
- GCSE Dance
- GCSE Design and Technology
- GCSE Digital Media and Film
- GCSE Digital Technology
- GCSE Health and Social Care, and Childcare
- GCSE History
- GCSE Integrated Science (Single Award)
- GCSE Physical Education and Health
- GCSE Social Studies
- GCSE The Sciences (Double Award)
- Level 2 Award in Additional Mathematics