Curriculum at Key Stage 4
The Northern Ireland Curriculum aims to empower young people to achieve their potential and to make informed and responsible decisions throughout their lives. The learning opportunities provided should help young people to develop as individuals, contributors to society and contributors to the economy and environment.
The statutory curriculum at Key Stage 4 is set out under the following Areas of Learning and Whole Curriculum Skills and Capabilities.
Language and Literacy
Language and Literacy is an Area of Learning in the curriculum. It is not compulsory for pupils at Key Stage 4, but schools must offer access to at least one course that leads to a qualification in
Modern Languages
Modern Languages is an Area of Learning in the post-primary curriculum. It is not compulsory for pupils at Key Stage 4, but schools must offer access to at least one course in an official language of
Mathematics and Numeracy
Mathematics and Numeracy is an Area of Learning in the curriculum. It is not compulsory for pupils at Key Stage 4, but schools must offer access to at least one course that leads to a qualification in
Learning for Life and Work
Learning for Life and Work is a compulsory Area of Learning at Key Stage 4. Schools must offer access to at least one course that leads to a qualification in this Area of Learning.
Environment and Society
Environment and Society is an Area of Learning in the post-primary curriculum. It is not compulsory for pupils at Key Stage 4, but schools must offer access to at least one course that leads to a
Physical Education
Physical Education is a compulsory Area of Learning at Key Stage 4. Schools must offer access to at least one course that leads to a qualification in this Area of Learning.
Religious Education
Religious Education is a compulsory part of the Northern Ireland Curriculum. Schools must offer access to at least one course that leads to a qualification in Religious Education.
Science and Technology
Science and Technology is an Area of Learning in the post-primary curriculum. It is not compulsory for pupils at Key Stage 4, but schools must offer access to at least one course that leads to a
Communication
Cross-Curricular SkillsCommunication is one of the three Cross-Curricular Skills at the heart of the curriculum. Developing pupils’ communication skills enables them to express themselves socially, emotionally and
Using Mathematics
Cross-Curricular SkillsUsing Mathematics is one of the three Cross-Curricular Skills at the heart of the curriculum. It is the skill of applying mathematical concepts, processes and understanding appropriately in different
Other Skills
Skills and CapabilitiesThe Other Skills at Key Stage 4 are Problem-Solving, Self-Management and Working with Others. These skills incorporate Being Creative and Managing Information. However, they are grouped differently to