What was the reason for introducing the national curriculum in 1988?

The introduction of the national curriculum in 1988 was primarily aimed at ensuring that all students receive a consistent and comprehensive education, encompassing key subjects across all schools in England. This move was designed to create a standard framework that outlines specific subjects and content, which must be covered by all maintained schools. This uniform approach helps to guarantee that no matter where a child lives or which school they attend, they will learn essential knowledge and skills deemed necessary for their development and future opportunities.

By establishing this common set of subjects, the national curriculum also aims to promote equity in education, reducing disparities in learning outcomes that could arise due to regional differences or variations in school resources. The focus on providing all students with access to key subjects is foundational to addressing educational inequalities and ensuring that every learner has the opportunity to achieve their potential.