Children's Play: Curriculum
The question
To ask the Secretary of State for Education, pursuant to the answer of 13th February 2026 to question 105615 on play based pedagogy, if her Department will consider the potential benefits of continuing play‑based pedagogy beyond the Early Years Foundation Stage into Key Stage 1.
Answered by Georgia Gould
The Curriculum and Assessment Review considered the extent to which the curriculum and the assessment system in England is fit for purpose and meeting the needs of children and young people. The government’s response set out key reforms to the national curriculum that we will be taking forward. The purpose of the national curriculum is to outline what must be taught in schools rather than how.
We will continue to back educators to apply their professional judgment and creativity to meet the needs of their pupils, meaning children will be able to benefit from play-based learning throughout their primary education.
The department is working to make sure that all children and young people have access to a variety of enrichment opportunities, including opportunities for play, at school as an important part of our mission to break down barriers to opportunity.
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