Author: Sally Weale Education correspondent
Scientists at the Royal Society of Chemistry are advocating for incorporating ice lollies into the national curriculum for primary schoolchildren in England. They believe that enjoying a frozen treat like a Fab or Calippo not only tastes good but also teaches important scientific concepts like heating, cooling, and temperature. In addition to ice lollies, the professionals are recommending hands-on experiences like kneading bread dough, planting vegetables, and playing with shadows to enhance early science education. These proposed changes aim to reduce disparities in STEM education and ensure that every child grasps fundamental scientific principles. The Royal Society of Chemistry, Institute…
The education secretary, Bridget Phillipson, highlighted the significant inequalities in England’s education system ahead of A-level results day, attributing them to 14 years of Conservative government. Regional disparities and gaps between state and private school students persist, with experts predicting the north-south attainment gap to continue. Phillipson emphasized the need for reform to address these inequalities, including potential reinstatement of maintenance grants for poorer students. She stressed the importance of high-quality teaching and support beyond school gates to improve outcomes for all students. With undergraduate places still available close to results day, Phillipson encouraged more young people to consider university…
A recent study by the Education Policy Institute (EPI) revealed a widening attainment gap between 16-year-olds from low-income families and their wealthier peers in England, except in London. The research showed disadvantaged students falling behind by over 19 months in GCSE results, with the gap increasing at all stages of their schooling. While disadvantaged pupils in London performed better than in other regions, persistent disadvantage led to a two-year gap by age 16. This disparity was described as a national tragedy by education leaders. The report highlighted a persistent disadvantage gap for older students but also noted an improvement in…
New research reveals that 8 out of 10 primary schoolteachers in England are using their own money to buy essential items for hungry and underprivileged pupils. The National Foundation for Educational Research found that teachers are spending more than £100 a year on food, clothing, and classroom materials. The study shows that 31% of teachers are witnessing an increase in hungry children, while 40% report students arriving at school without proper uniforms or warm clothing. This situation is forcing teachers to step in and provide support, despite facing financial pressures themselves. While secondary schools are slightly less affected, with 62%…
For the past 14 years, school funding in England has remained stagnant, according to the Institute for Fiscal Studies. Per pupil spending has not increased since the Conservatives came into power, with funding now at 2010 levels in real terms. This lack of investment has affected teacher pay and school infrastructure, with a 25% decrease in real terms spending on school buildings since the mid-2000s. The report highlights the government’s failure to allocate sufficient funds for maintaining school buildings in good condition. School leaders expressed frustration at the lack of growth in funding per pupil, despite increasing responsibilities and costs.…
Labour’s headline policy leading up to the general election is to end tax breaks for private schools in the UK. This policy, previously adopted under Jeremy Corbyn, is under renewed scrutiny as Keir Starmer’s party is ahead in the polls. If Labour wins, they plan to remove tax exemptions for private schools, particularly VAT on fees, generating an estimated £1.5bn annually. The aim is to invest this in the state education sector, funding more teachers and mental health support staff. What impact will it have? Critics fear an increase in private school fees, potentially leading to an exodus of students…