DfE had no plan for dealing with a pandemic, says critical report by MPs

The Department for Education had no plan for dealing with a pandemic and failed to set standards for remote learning during lockdown, leading to “unequal experiences” for many children, according to a critical report by MPs.

Parliament’s public accounts committee also said there was evidence that the government’s £1.7bn catch-up programme – designed to restore the learning lost during school closures – may not be connecting with many of the most disadvantaged children. The committee’s report describes the DfE as having “worthy aspirations but little specific detail”.

07/12/23Ashford school to make students lock their phones in pouches

A school in Kent is planning to make students put their mobile phones in a locked pouch during the day. The John Wallis Academy in Ashford will introduce the measure in the new year. Principal Damian McBeath explained that he hoped the rule would limit disruptions in the school and help with safeguarding. Mr McBeath said he thought the academy would be the first school in Kent to use the pouches.

01/12/23Top Tips for Supply Teachers

Going into new schools can be daunting! We wanted to share some of our favourite top tips for supply teachers so you can be as prepared as possible and enjoy your supply day.

18/10/23Digital exams to be introduced within years - AQA

Pupils in England could sit some of their GCSE exams digitally within the next few years, under exam board proposals.

02/10/23Education secretary Gillian Keegan understood to be considering complete mobile phone ban for schools

Mobile phones could be banned in schools completely under new guidance the government is understood to be considering.

17/08/23A-level results for pupils across Kent to be revealed

Pupils across Kent will receive their A-levels results today – as grading returns to pre-pandemic standards.