Michele Gregson, General Secretary & CEO of NSEAD, has been contracted by the Department for Education (DfE) as lead drafter, helping to shape the new National Curriculum programmes of study for Art & Design and to review GCSE subject content.
Michele is working alongside Paula Briggs (AccessArt) and Dr Will Grant (University of the West of England), who will be drafting Key Stage 3 and responsible for transition, and Kaytie Holdstock (University of Worcester), who will lead drafting of the Key Stage 1-2 curriculum. We are pleased that the drafting group includes three NSEAD Council members in Michele, Will and Kaytie.
NSEAD will be responding to the recommendations of the Curriculum and Assessment Review published in November 2025 and using their expertise as a professional association for art, craft and design educators across the UK to shape an Art & Design curriculum that is future facing, inclusive and equips learners for the world they live in. Sustainability, digital and green skills, creativity, critical and contextual thinking and communication are essential elements which will be strengthened.
NSEAD's contribution to the new curriculum builds on our previous work providing expert, evidence-led information and recommendations in the 2005-08 and 2014-16 reforms.
Michele Gregson says:
‘The Curriculum and Assessment Review set out a clear principle for the refreshed national curriculum, that it must provide “an aspirational, engaging and demanding offer that reflects the high expectations and excellence our young people deserve, irrespective of background.” We will hold this ambition as our standard, as we work to implement the recommendations of the review.’
Andy Ash, NSEAD President, says:
‘As President of NSEAD, I am delighted to support this vital and influential work. Michele’s leadership ensures that the new curriculum will champion contemporary, and high-quality art and design education, empowering teachers and enriching the creative lives of pupils across the country.’
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