Schools in NSW will take their first step next week toward a curriculum more focused on essential skills.

Education Minister Sarah Mitchell told Jim Wilson as of Monday, several hundred primary schools across the state will trial a five-minute diagnostic test to assess students’ phonics development.

“[Literacy and numeracy] have always been a core part of the curriculum, but what we’ve wanted to do is makes sure that we declutter.

“Particularly in the early years … we’ve got to make sure that our students get across the basics in English and Maths.

“It’s time for a refresh.”

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