The ACARA - Australian Curriculum Assessment and Report Authority - is the foundation responsible for the creating the national curricula, which aim to, in their own words:
"Improve the quality, equity and transparency of Australia’s education system... It's designed to teach students what it takes to be confident and creative individuals and become active and informed citizens. It sets the goal for what all students should learn as they progress through their school life – wherever they live in Australia and whatever school they attend."
But if this was created for schools, why should we parents and guardians home educating our children be informed about ACARA?
Great question! See, on the initial pages of the ACARA document, you will find the following statement:
1. "The primary audience for the Australian Curriculum (ACARA) is teachers. The curriculum is written... (to be) ... appropriate for professional practitioners of each learning area." p11, Vol. 5, June 2020. "The Shape of the Australian Curriculum".So the Australian Curriculum is primarily designed for classroom and school settings, , the Parent's Guide can be very helpful when home educating because as the name says, it serves as a guide as to what each young Australian should be learning in each year, from foundation to year 10.
That means that the curriculum can be used for reference for each grade, but we need to stress here that no, the learning areas and subjects are not set in stone. As ACARA recognizes that:
"Every student is unique, with different needs and interests. Teachers use the curriculum to plan in ways that respond to those needs and interests. The Australian Curriculum is flexible, allowing schools and teachers to personalise student learning."
Note: The document refers to school and teachers only, but as we know, with home education, the parent or guardian is responsible for providing the education.
So yes, ACARA can be a helpful guide for you to use in your home education journey with your children, along with the Alice Springs 2019 Declaration that is also a support document that explains what is expected in terms of education for all Australian Child.
I hope this post was helpful for you and if need any assistance during your home educating feel free to contact us!
Wirraglen Home Education Support Group
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