The final volume of four, the authors consider how the concerns of ethnic groups may be addressed within the framework of the National Curriculum. Despite the indecision surrounding primary school curriculum, it remains that the multicultural nature of the population and of schools will develop.

This text discusses the theory and practice of several important areas of cross-curricular work in primary schools. It uses the National Curriculum Council's categories of themes, skills and dimensions to examine what is involved in such practice and to consider its current status in schools and future possibilities.; Providing practical suggestions for more well- established areas such as environmental studies, it also examines topical but under-represented themes, skills and dimensions such as media education, pupil self-assessment and discipline. The authors argue that cross-curricular practice both contributes to National Curriculum requirements and gives these requirements overall coherence. Cross- curricular practice also enables children to develop the knowledge, skills and concepts that are of value in coping with, and enjoying, the complexities of the 21st century. Suggestions are provided on how to provide leadership and stimulate staff interest in these areas by reviewing existing policies, teaching and resources.

Published in 1996, this book presents a broad overview of the development of educational policy for schools in England and Wales since Margaret Thatcher’s Conservative administration took office in 1979. It reviews the separate strands of education policy as it relates to curriculum, equal educational opportunities, diversity and choice and management policies, and combines these with an overall appraisal of the direction of the schools system in the two decades before it was written. The book thereby provides a comprehensive text for undergraduate and postgraduate students which raises issues for debate and includes support material for discussion. It will also be of interest to school governors, educationalists and all those who care about the direction of educational change.

This book highlights issues which underpin the professional capabilities of existing and aspiring subject leaders. The content is designed to build on the skills, knowledge, understanding and attributes which serving Heads of Department and subject co-ordinators already possess. Sections are provided on: *essential knowledge and understanding for the role *strategic planning and development *monitoring and evaluating teaching and learning *leading and managing staff to raise achievement. The emphasis throughout is on corresponding with the National Standards set by the Teacher Training Agency. Through focused activities the book aims to set challenges in practical contexts and to help subject leaders to plan ahead and improve subject provision in order to raise standards.

This is the second of a two-volume publication which provides an international perspective on how children learn to read. Research studies and classroom experiences from around the world are reported, highlighting implications for the design implementation and evaluation of classroom reading programmes. Contributions are included from the UK, USA, Canada, Australia, Jamaica and Israel with evidence drawn from over 18 countries. Despite the contexted differences, there are many common concerns and controversies. From these, three areas are identified: the first is developing an improved understanding of the nature of children's early reading development; the second is the consideration of the ways in which children's reading can be encouraged. This volume addresses the issues of curriculum and assessment in the context of accountability.

As primary subjects are increasingly being taught on an interdisciplinary level, Russell Grigg and Sioned Hughes have created an innovative new text, Teaching Primary Humanities. This new text explores current debate, encourages reflection and provides clear guidance on planning, teaching and assessing the humanities from the Early Years to Key Stage 2. Through a blend of theory and real-life examples, Grigg and Hughes demonstrate the contribution that history, geography and religious education can make to enhancing children’s thinking, literacy, numeracy and ICT skills. Whether you are a trainee or a practitioner, this book will develop your knowledge of how young children’s understanding of place, time and community can be fostered through a play-based curriculum. It will also benefit teachers of older children looking to encourage more independent learning in their schools. About the authors: Dr Russell Grigg is Head of the South West Wales Centre of Teacher Education. He is a trained primary inspector for England and Wales. He has written widely in the field of history and primary education including Wales in the Victorian Age and Becoming an Outstanding Primary Teacher. Dr Sioned Hughes is Senior Lecturer in Initial Teacher Training at the South West Wales Centre of Teacher Education. She has published many educational materials, especially in primary geography. Her work on Patagonia was recognised by the Welsh Books Council as the ‘Bestselling Children’s Book’ in 2011.