The Nuffield Curriculum Centre is in the process of developing a series of thematic KS3 modules that will encourage teachers to collaborate in creating challenging, relevant and authentic STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths) activities for all pupils. They will be designed to explore crucial overarching themes such as sustainable development and healthy lifestyles, which will have such a significant effect on learners in the 21st century. The modules will have potential to be extended for wider curriculum coverage after the initial stage.

The first of three KS3 modules will be written for delivery in Year 7, over approximately 30 contact hours. Activities in the module will incorporate a wide spectrum of learning approaches, and will explicitly develop PLT skills, attributes and attitudes. This approach will provide numerous opportunities for teachers to assess pupil progress, and will allow pupils to demonstrate a wide range of skills through a variety of outcomes.

Our initial research is focusing on the attributes of schools already implementing a successful thematic curriculum. We then need to identify schools prepared to partner us in the development of high quality cross-curricular resources.

These materials will be available online from an early stage and will evolve as teachers refine ideas and generate new activities. The Year 7 module will be ready for trialling in September 2008, to be followed shortly afterwards by Year 8 and Year 9 modules.

In addition to developing specific cross-curricular resources which encourage pupil-centred learning, this project will explore the type of support needed to encourage this work in schools. Generic resources, ICT tools and professional development packages will be produced alongside the project.