Written question asked by Evan Harris (Liberal Democrat) on Wednesday, 15 July 2009, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Monday, 20 July 2009. It was answered by Diana Johnson (Labour) on Tuesday, 21 July 2009 on behalf of the Department for Children, Schools and Families.

Evolution: Curriculum

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Children, Schools and Families what assessment he made of the merits of including learning about evolution in the scientific and technological understanding area of learning of the proposed primary curriculum; and if he will make a statement.

Answer: The proposed scientific and technological understanding area of learning was developed by a wide range of key stakeholders, including primary head teachers, teachers, subject specialists and learned societies. It contains the scientific and technological knowledge, skills and understanding stakeholders considered to be essential learning for children aged 5 to 11.The proposals are subject to a consultation exercise that closes on 24 July 2009. The consultation is available at"www.qca.org.uk/curriculumconsultation."We will take final decisions on the proposals for a new primary curriculum in the autumn.

Secondary information