Eight Key Takeaways from Bridget Phillipson’s First Sector Address1. Ofsted’s Expanded RoleIn her first live Q&A session with ther education sector, Bridget Phillipson emphasised integrating Ofsted’s school inspections with broader child services and promised a reform to the way inspections are scored and presented, as well as suggesting MATs will soon be inspected by the body.2. Curriculum ReviewA comprehensive review …
What Labour’s victory could mean for education policy
What Labour’s victory could mean for education policyWith the projected Labour victory seemingly all but confirmed after yesterday’s General Election, a new government means a shift towards new policies. Below we take a look at the education policy Labour laid out while on the campaign trail; from the controversial plan to tax independent schools to delivering free breakfast clubs for …
Major Parties’ Key Education Policies
The Major Parties’ Key Education PoliciesThe UK general election is tomorrow, and education is a key issue for many voters up and down the country. Here’s a detailed roundup of the major parties’ key education policies, giving you a clear understanding of the parties addressing the issues vital to you.The Conservative PartyThe Conservative party is focusing it’s education policies on …
AI in Education
AI in EducationArtificial intelligence (AI) is making significant inroads into the UK’s educational landscape. According to a recent Scottish Qualifications Authority (SQA) survey, about half of the educators in the UK are leveraging AI tools such as ChatGPT and Google Bard for various aspects of their teaching. This surge in AI usage is transforming educational practices, both offering promising opportunities …
Labour’s Education Pledge: Recruiting 6,500 New Teachers
Labour’s Education Pledge:Recruiting 6,500 New TeachersLabour has renewed its commitment to education by pledging to recruit 6,500 additional teachers, emphasising this move as a cornerstone of their broader vision for systemic sector change. This commitment, part of Labour’s six “first steps for change” should the party come into government, is aimed at addressing the persistent challenges of teacher shortages in …
Revolutionising School Funding in England
Revolutionising School Funding in England In a thought-provoking and timely report released by the Confederation of School Trusts (CST) this month, the educational landscape in England is poised for a transformative shift through proposed reforms to school funding. Titled “Funding Futures”, this detailed document underscores the urgent need for a funding system that is both fair and sufficient, amidst a backdrop …
Alternative Provision Specialist Taskforces (APST)
Alternative Provision Specialist Taskforces (APST) The Department for Education (DfE) has embarked on a transformative approach to support vulnerable young people at risk of exploitation, gang involvement or serious violence, or falling out of education or employment through the introduction of Alternative Provision Specialist Taskforces (APST). This initiative aims to keep these individuals engaged in their education, steer them away from …
Academy Conversion Grant Changes
Academy Conversion Grant Changes In a significant development, the Department for Education (DfE) has updated the eligibility criteria for maintained schools considering conversion to academy or trust status. This change, announced just yesterday (21/03/24), aims to streamline the conversion process and encourage a more collaborative, community-driven approach among schools. Let’s delve into what this means for schools and the strategic implications …
Children’s Homes: A PAG Report
Children’s Homes:A PAG Report The landscape of children’s social care in England is evolving, with the government committing significant resources to expand and improve children’s home placements. Using publicly available data and studies, and our own experience and expertise, PAG has produced a report titled ‘Establishing Children’s Homes’, looking into what it takes to successfully establish and operate a children’s home …
Independent Schools VAT – SEND Exemption?
Independent Schools VAT – SEND Exemption? In recent discussions within the UK’s educational and political landscapes, a crucial debate has emerged concerning the application of VAT on school fees, specifically regarding provisions for special needs education (SEND) within independent schools.Independent Schools VAT Row? As of January and April 2023, contrasting positions have been highlighted by Bridget Phillipson in the House of Commons …