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
Tuesday
22nd Feb 2022
Covid absence down but heads fear new wave could hit schools
New data suggests schools are now past the worst of Omicron peak after an absence-hit term
Covid tests will be free for secondary schools during outbreaks
Secondary school staff and pupils will be able to access free Covid tests when responding to public health advice, particularly in relation to local outbreaks
SEND review: The special school places problem
New special schools aren’t being built quick enough to cope with the rising demand for places – and this is a problem that urgently needs to be addressed in the government’s SEND review, says Simon Knight
Monday
21st Feb 2022
Covid testing for school staff and students to end today
Boris Johnson announced the removal of remaining Covid restrictions in the Commons today
Need to know: Northern Ireland and integrated education
Non-integrated schools are the norm in Northern Ireland but a private member’s bill is seeking change
Career guidance: Why vocational courses must be given more focus
Robert Halfon MP explains why he’s looking to amend the Skills and Post-16 Education Bill to give pupils more insights into vocational courses and enhance how much career guidance time students receive in school
Friday
18th Feb 2022
91¶¶Òõ essentials: Impartiality, Ofsted and the internet crisis
Your round-up of 91¶¶Òõ’ most popular news and features articles from the past week
Can these plans to reduce headteacher numbers be justified?
Controversial plans in parts of Scotland would see ‘executive heads’ leading several schools