London: In what is being described as the biggest curriculum overhaul in a decade, pupils in England will be taught how to identify fake news and learn about artificial intelligence as part of a UK government effort to revitalise the education system.

Responding to the recommendations of a Curriculum and Assessment Review published on Wednesday, the Department for Education (DfE) confirmed steps to equip young people with the knowledge and skills needed for the future.

The review also proposed reducing the overall volume of exams faced by teenagers by 10 per cent, describing current levels of assessment as “excessive.”

“From the fundamentals of reading to the present danger of spotting fake news, these landmark reforms will help young people step boldly into the future,” said Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson. “It has been over a decade since the national curriculum was updated, and it is more crucial than ever that young people are equipped to face today's challenges.”

Primary school children will be taught how to identify misinformation and disinformation to develop critical thinking and protect themselves from online harms. The new curriculum will also include lessons on money management—covering topics such as mortgages and debt—and measures to strengthen reading skills.

“It is essential that every young person finishes their education with the knowledge and skills to move successfully into working life,” said Jane Gratton, Deputy Director of Public Policy at the British Chambers of Commerce, welcoming the reforms.

The new curriculum, which will include compulsory citizenship and climate education modules, a new language qualification, and more outdoor learning, will be implemented from September 2028. The final version is expected to be published by early 2027.