A Simple Guide To The Northern Ireland Curriculum
For parents of school-aged children in Northern Ireland
The Northern Ireland Curriculum is what all children aged 4–16 learn in school. It helps children gain the skills and knowledge they need for life, learning, and work.
1. How the curriculum is organised
Children move through Key Stages based on age:
- Foundation Stage: Years 1–2 (ages 4–6)
- Key Stage 1: Years 3–4 (ages 6–8)
- Key Stage 2: Years 5–7 (ages 8–11)
- Key Stage 3: Years 8–10 (ages 11–14)
- Key Stage 4: Years 11–12 (ages 14–16) – children do GCSEs, Essential skills or other qualifications.
Teachers should check children’s learning at every stage to see how they are doing and how to support them.
2. What children learn (areas of learning)
In primary school, children learn through six main areas:
- Language & Literacy – talking, listening, reading, writing.
- Mathematics & Numeracy – numbers, shapes, measuring, data.
- The World Around Us – geography, history, science and technology.
- The Arts – art, music, drama.
- Physical Education – games, gymnastics, dance, athletics; swimming at Key Stage 2.
- Religious Education – learning about beliefs and values
(Parents may choose for their child not to take part in RE.)
Children also develop:
- Communication skills
- Using Mathematics
- Using ICT
- Thinking skills (problem solving, creativity, working with others).
3. How children learn
The curriculum focuses on helping children:
- Take part in their learning,
- Build confidence,
- Link what they learn in school to real life.
Teachers plan lessons that suit children’s needs and make learning active and meaningful.
4. How parents can help
You don’t need advanced education to support your child. Simple things help a lot:
- Talk with your child about their day.
- Read together regularly.
- Encourage counting using everyday things (shopping, cooking).
- Let them explore (ask questions, look at nature, play).
- Praise effort, not just results.
For more simple parent guides, see CCEA’s official resources. [ccea.org.uk] or reach out to us here at Phoenix Education and we will guide you.
