Citizenship at key stages 1 and 2    (Year 3-6)

most children: recognise and describe some of the main characteristics of their local community, and that it has changed over time. They talk with different people in the local community about what the place was like in the past and how it compares with the present. They know what they like and dislike about the place and make suggestions for improvements. They understand that local democracy is organised through the local council, and they know some of the council's services and activities. They know that the local councillors are chosen to represent the views of the community and understand that councillors have a responsibility to listen to the views of the electorate. They begin to recognise that there are different levels of government, including local government and national government. They work in groups to investigate and discuss issues and communicate their findings to others. They contribute to discussions and debates.

some children have not made so much progress and: know some of the main features of their local community. They know there is a local council and understand that local councillors are chosen to make decisions on behalf of the community. They communicate ideas for improving the locality to others and contribute to discussions.

some children have progressed further and: recognise and describe some of the main characteristics of their local community. They know some reasons why the place is located where it is and can say how it has changed over time. They talk with different people in the local community about what the place was like in the past and how it compares with the present. They identify their own views on what they like and dislike about the place and develop ideas and suggestions for improvements. They know how local democracy is organised and understand the role of the local council. They know some of the council's services and activities, and that local councillors are chosen to represent the views of the community. They understand that councillors have a responsibility to listen to the views of the electorate on issues that concern them and recognise the importance of voting. They begin to recognise that there are different levels of government and can relate what happens in local government to what happens in national government. They work in groups to investigate and discuss issues and communicate their findings to others. They draw on their own knowledge and understanding when contributing to discussions and debate.