CPDL: Representation in the Primary Curriculum

• Date: Thursday 27 March
• Time: 3:30 pm – 5:00 pm

Teachers may face challenges in effectively integrating diversity and representation into the primary curriculum. When approaching racial, ethnic and religious diversity, and representation in the curriculum, many teachers are stuck by their fear of “getting it wrong”, “being tokenistic” or “opening up a can of worms”. It's crucial to address these challenges to create inclusive learning environments that reflect the diverse experiences and identities of students.

In this free-to-access CPDL session, experienced trainers Abha Aggarwal and Ruth England of Race Matters will introduce you to some of the principles and practices from Artswork’s comprehensive four-part Representation in the Primary Curriculum course. Through a mix of expert insight and thought-provoking discussion, this interactive session will introduce teachers to approaching diverse perspectives into their teaching.

What Will You Learn?

This session provides an introduction to key concepts and tools that can help educators integrate diversity and representation into their teaching practice. While the session focuses on the primary arts curriculum, the insights shared are relevant across all subjects. Participants will gain an understanding of:

• Foundational curriculum principles for achieving balanced representation, including how to start developing an inclusive framework for teaching.

• Key terminology relating to ‘race’ and racism, and how these concepts can impact children and young people in the classroom.

• Practical tools for beginning to evaluate existing curricula and identifying areas for improvement.

• How children and young people perceive and experience 'race' and racism, helping educators navigate these topics with greater awareness.

• Broad approaches to incorporating diverse perspectives, histories, and voices into lessons.

The session will include activities, discussions, and time for reflection, providing a rich opportunity to connect with peers and share ideas.

This session offers a valuable opportunity to begin exploring these important topics while also serving as an introduction to the more comprehensive Representation in the Primary Curriculum (RiPC) course.

Why Attend?

• Build confidence in addressing sensitive and complex topics in your classroom.
• Access practical tools and resources to begin to integrate diversity and representation into your teaching practice.
• Learn strategies to enhance student engagement, learning outcomes, and social cohesion.
• Be inspired to make meaningful changes to your curriculum, helping all pupils feel seen, valued, and included.

About The Facilitators:

• Abha Aggarwal has extensive classroom teaching experience and a research background in anti-racism and Global Citizenship education, and is a Lecturer in Initial Teacher Education.
• Ruth England specialises in delivering projects and training in Global Citizenship education, primary arts curricula, and children’s literature.

• Date: Thursday 27 March
• Time: 3:30 pm – 5:00 pm
• Location: Online via Zoom
• Cost: Fully funded and free to attend

If you require further information or would like to discuss your needs in advance of the session, please contact us at training@artswork.org.uk

*Read our course terms and conditions here.