Answer to Question #219128 in Sociology for Alicia Geel

Question

Explain the main aspects of citizenship education in the United Kingdom.

Answer 1

Citizenship education develops knowledge, skills and understanding that pupils need to play a full part in society as active and responsible citizens. In England, citizenship is a statutory National Curriculum foundation subject in secondary schools. According to 1998 Crick Report it referred citizen education as three strands: social and moral responsibility, community involvement and political literacy.

Citizenship education at secondary school level across the UK is taught in different ways: as a statutory subject in England and Northern Ireland; as a non-statutory subject in Wales; as a cross-curricular theme in Scotland. The educational approach is didactic and subject-based in England whereas whole-school strategies and experiential learning have prevailed elsewhere. Citizenship education in Northern Ireland has stemmed from the need to establish a stable basis for peace. England, Wales and Scotland have considered it as a possible solution to the low participation of young people in politics but Wales and Scotland have also used CE to further their identities.

Teaching has been based on democratic and participative methodologies to learning and teaching which recognise children and young people as citizens now, not in waiting.This is why planning and decision-making processes are inclusive and participative, involving learners and the wider school community although it must be noted that numerous as pupil councils are not yet mandatory.