Some educators are worried the curriculum – scheduled for implementation from next year – could be introduced too soon.

Amanda Leach is a science teacher at Port Macquarie High School and secretary of Port Macquarie’s teachers association.

Ms Leach, who has been teaching for 20 years, said consultation about the draft curriculum was taking place.

But her biggest concern was that it would be “rushed through”.

“I’m not against the change as such, and I can see advantages to having a national curriculum. However, I can see the changes will be brought about too quickly,” Ms Leach said.

She said teachers may not have enough time to develop resources necessary for teaching the new syllabus.

As a science and senior chemistry teacher, she said a major challenge would be teaching new material to senior students.

“That’s where you have to put a lot of time into preparation,” Ms Leach said.

She added the focus of the national curriculum seemed to be “going back to what were traditionally the core subjects”.

NSW Teachers Federation regional organiser Wayne Webber believed there had been a lack of consultation.

The consultation process is continuing.

“I think the big problem with the national curriculum is ... it was rushed,” Mr Webber said.

He also was concerned it might not be up to the standard of the existing NSW curriculum.

“Local teachers are well aware that in NSW we have the highest standards.

“The way the curriculum has been developed has been through extensive negotiation and trialling.”

Mr Webber added that time for creative, performing arts and technology subjects was reduced.

The NSW Board of Studies recently released criticism of the curriculum for kindergarten to year 10.

The new national curriculum is being developed by the Australian Curriculum, Assessment and Reporting Authority.

A NSW Department of Education and Training spokesman said the state government supported the development of the curriculum.

“The Department of Education and Training is actively participating in the consultation processes of the Board of Studies, and has representatives on advisory committees,” he said.

“The Department will continue to provide expert support to public schools in the implementation of curriculum.

“Comment has been sought from school principals.”