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<p>All schools are required to provide a broad and balanced curriculum. The Government
recognises that creative arts are an integral part of a child’s education. They develop
skills that are important to our economy and help prepare children for adult life.</p><p>
</p><p>The national curriculum sets out our expectations of what pupils should be
taught and we have reformed GCSE and A level qualifications in a range of subjects,
including art and design, music, drama, dance and design & technology. We have
made significant changes in particular to design and technology, making this a better
preparation for young people to progress into careers in a wide range of engineering
and design fields.</p><p> </p><p>Our reforms to technical and vocational education
incentivise schools and colleges to teach only those qualifications that meet rigorous
quality criteria, develop the skills and knowledge that employers need and enable
young people to progress into employment. For 16-18 year olds this includes qualifications
in creative subjects that will equip them to apply for a range of jobs in the creative
industries.</p><p> </p><p>In November, the Government announced further reforms to
technical and professional education that will simplify the skills system and ensure
it is understood and valued by employers. The Government will simplify and streamline
the number of qualifications so that individuals have a clear set of routes which
allow for progression into skilled employment. An independent panel, chaired by Lord
Sainsbury, is developing proposals for these reforms and they will report to Government
this spring.</p><p> </p><p>In December 2014, the Secretary of State announced funding
for a new careers and enterprise company. This employer-led, independent company is
strengthening links between employers, schools and colleges and careers and enterprise
organisations to inspire young people, assisting them with taking control of their
own futures and helping to address skills shortages. The provision of high-quality
careers guidance for all young people is a key part of this Government’s commitment
to delivering real social justice.</p>
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