Policy
The latest news, analysis and advice on government policy and legislation. Find a breakdown of new documentation, case studies from leaders and comment from high-profile educators
Friday
3rd May 2024
Schools ready for remote learning ‘within days’ if necessary
New report looks at Scottish schools’ and local authorities’ ability to shift to remote learning if another major event causes schools buildings to close
EYFS: Sure Start wasn’t perfect, but lessons can be learned
Despite new research highlighting the positive impact of Sure Start, there are reasons why the scheme shouldn’t simply be relaunched, says the chair of the Social Mobility Commission
Could online AP help more students back to the mainstream?
An online-only alternative provision provider has become one of the first schools to receive online education accreditation from Ofsted. Dan Worth examines how it works and whether online AP could be used more widely across the sector
Regional director system a ‘black box’ lacking visibility, says ex-minister
Robin Walker hits out at the current system after government refused Commons Education Select Committee calls for decision-makers to produce an annual report for Parliament
Exclusive
Thursday
2nd May 2024
Should fixing the structure of the school system be an election priority?
At the Schools and Academies Show, a panel of education experts debated if a lack of clarity on school structure is holding schools back – or if other challenges need fixing first
John Swinney set to become FM - what does it mean for education?
John Swinney is the only candidate in the SNP leadership race – what can schools expect from Nicola Sturgeon’s ‘safe pair of hands’?
Faith special schools can help to ease SEND pressure
The chief education officer of the Church of England says new government plan could have a big impact on special educational needs support – but more resources will still be needed
Who is Bridget Phillipson?
We take a closer look at the background and career of the shadow secretary of state for education, Bridget Phillipson
Wednesday
1st May 2024
DfE SEND reform testing plan ‘9 months behind schedule’
Some of the planned reforms were going down ‘like cold sick’, says Amanda Allard, director of the Council for Disabled Children
Ofqual: Sunak’s ABS plan means ‘unprecedented’ change
In response to the prime minister’s plan for a new Advanced British Standard qualification, exams regulator warns private schools would likely continue to run A levels
Growing oracy focus could benefit maths teaching
Boosting pupils’ ability to explain their reasoning in maths could help evolve their understanding from the procedural to something much more foundational, says David Thomas
Faith schools: DfE to scrap 50% cap and allow special academies
Move to lift faith cap ‘unnecessary’ and ‘potentially retrograde’, heads’ union warns