The Key Stage 3 National Strategy aims to build on the successes of the National Literacy and Numeracy Strategies in primary schools. It is based on four important principles:
Expectations: establishing high expectations for all pupils and setting challenging targets for them to achieve;
Progression: strengthening the transition from Key Stage 2 to Key Stage 3 and ensuring progression in teaching and learning across Key Stage 3;
Engagement: promoting approaches to teaching and learning that engage and motivate pupils and demand their active participation;

Transformation: strengthening teaching and learning through a programme of professional development and practical support.

The ICT Strand was piloted during 2001 and 2002 in 17 LEAs, and was rolled out nationally in September 2003.
The Government has set ambitious national targets for pupils� achievements in ICT. By 2007, 85% of pupils are expected to reach at least level 5 of the National Curriculum, with a milestone target for 2004 of 75% at level 5 and above.
The ICT strand of the Key Stage 3 National Strategy aims to help schools to reach these targets by providing:
An audit guide to assist the identification of strengths and areas for development in the teaching of ICT capability;
A framework to support the planning , teaching and assessment of ICT: sample teaching units for Years 7 and 8, with detailed lesson plans that exemplify effective teaching of ICT capability;
Training to help to develop teachers� confidence and skills in teaching the programme of study for Key Stage 3 to all pupils, including the gifted and talented and those with special educational needs;
A team of KS3 ICT consultants who will support teachers;

The Bedfordshire KS3 ICT Team will be providing training and consultancy support for teachers during this initiative.