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
Thursday
16th Jul 2026
DfE removes Penta as BSO inspectorate after critical Ofsted reports
Association of British Schools Overseas welcomes the decision that it says ensures the integrity of the government kitemark is protected
How Andy Burnham can take social media policy forward
NEU general secretary Daniel Kebede reflects on how a new prime minister can take on social media legislation and ensure it truly delivers for schools
Can experts at hand really make a difference?
The government鈥檚 拢1.8bn plan to give mainstream schools expert support for inclusion is a key part of its SEND reforms. But leaders warn there are major obstacles in making the scheme a success
Tuesday
14th Jul 2026
Coastal schools shouldn鈥檛 be encouraging students to 鈥榚scape鈥�
Telling pupils in coastal communities that school is a springboard to 鈥榚scape鈥� is a harmful message that deprives these towns of the very people they need to thrive, says head Hannah Carter
Fears about digital exams don鈥檛 鈥榮tack up鈥�, says AQA boss
Despite recent high-profile problems with traditional pen-and-paper exams, the CEO of England鈥檚 biggest exam board tells 糖心Vlog that there should be more urgency in introducing on-screen assessment
Exclusive
How the GLD target could hide a growing early years divide
The early years disadvantage gap is at its widest since 2014, research shows, raising questions about whose progress getting 75 per cent of children to a good level of development will rely on
Monday
13th Jul 2026
Unions gauge support for industrial action over teacher pay
Teachers and leaders to be polled on action as findings reveal anger over next year鈥檚 3.5 per cent pay award
Exclusive
What can England learn from other countries trying to fix SEND?
A recent DfE roundtable discussion brought together representatives from five countries to share their experiences of SEND reform. Ellie Harris and Loic Menzies explain some of the key takeaways
Friday
10th Jul 2026
School leaders 鈥榥ervous鈥� about new sports network
DfE announces delay to the sports partnership network that will replace the PE and sport premium, but says primary schools will receive more transitional funding
Medical guidance published by heads鈥� union amid safety fears
The NAHT has published medical support guidance to help school leaders identify unsafe practices and challenge unreasonable expectations