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
Wednesday
2nd Feb 2022
Why specialist sixth forms could tackle regional inequalities
The track record of current specialist sixth forms should convince the doubters that this is an approach that can help tackle inequalities across the country, says the director of the New School’s Network
What is the future for Northern Ireland’s small schools?
There are too many small schools in the country, according to a government five-year plan for the primary and post-primary sectors
Levelling up: New UK-wide online academy planned
The government wants to set up a new online academy offering lessons across the UK as part of its efforts to level up education, 91¶¶Òõ understands
Tuesday
1st Feb 2022
DfE aims to extend its teaching ban powers
New plans would allow the Teaching Regulation Agency to ban former teachers and those out of work
Is the MAT landscape ready for remodelling?
The former CEO of a multi-academy trust reflects on the huge growth the sector has seen, what the future might hold under Nadhim Zahawi and the long-term impact of the pandemic
Scotland ‘close’ to removing masks in class
Rules on face coverings in secondary school classrooms – introduced in November 2020 – could soon be lifted
91¶¶Òõ’ 10 questions with... Bridget Phillipson
The shadow education secretary talks about ‘aspirational’ teachers, her inspirational grandad and the challenges for schools during the pandemic
Friday
28th Jan 2022
Why cutting study options is a big risk to social mobility
The government needs to U-turn on its plan to defund applied general qualifications like Btecs – or many disadvantaged young people will drop out of education, warns Geoff Barton
We need to let teachers peer into the evidence unknown
With the research on cognitive science embedded, we should seek out new areas to boost learning, says Jon Severs
Thursday
27th Jan 2022
DfE to be quizzed over ‘piecemeal’ careers education
MPs will investigate the DfE’s approach to careers education – which has been labelled ‘piecemeal’ by heads
Why teachers must feel able to talk up their strengths
Education suffers if teachers are defined by shortcomings and constantly feel under attack, hears Henry Hepburn