Question to the Department for Education:

To ask His Majesty's Government what plans they have to ensure that the plays students study include Black, Asian and minority ethnic representation.

The National Curriculum for English aims to ensure that all pupils appreciate the UK’s rich and varied literary heritage. It encourages pupils to read a range of books, poems and plays to encourage the development of a love of literature. In Key Stage 3, pupils should also be taught seminal world literature.

Following consultation on the minimum requirements for the new English literature GCSE criteria in 2013, the final categories were: at least one play by Shakespeare, a selection of poetry since 1789, at least one 19th century novel and fiction or drama from the British Isles from 1914 onwards. The GCSE specification encourages students to read widely within these categories, to broaden their knowledge of literature, and enhance critical and comparative understanding. Teachers have flexibility in the choice of books and plays to teach within the context of the National Curriculum.

Schools make their own decisions on choosing texts, within the set requirements. The Department provides guidance for teachers on how to make their choices of texts, with literacy organisations and reading charities offering suggestions, book lists, guidance, research, and support.