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25 June 2026

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Opinion

What does reopening look like across our school system?

Teacher Tapp data finds the “Big Thaw” is leaving many children out in the cold In early March, a Big Freeze settled over schools across the world. Unesco estimates that by April, 91 per cent of schools in the world were closed. But by early June, a third had reopened their doors. England’s schools are […]

Racism exists. End of story. So do something about it

Tackling racism is more than a duty. It is the promise of education, says Olayinka Ewuola The senseless killing of George Floyd has reopened old wounds and rekindled difficult conversations. There is immense pressure and pain across our communities, and as a chair of governors it isn’t enough for me to hear of just sympathy. […]

Decisions are needed now on exams and accountability

This year’s exam disruption is far from the end of the story. Stephen Tierney suggests reforms to give teachers and students a measure of certainty The can-do attitude of schools has been exceptional over the past three months. Remaining at the heart of their communities, they have protected the vulnerable, fed the hungry and provided […]

A week in the life of Naureen Khalid

Trustee and chair of governors, Naureen Khalid opens her lockdown diary to reveal that governance in the time of coronavirus is a non-stop job

Continuity planning must start without delay

Amid uncertainty, we can narrow down likely scenarios to ensure all learners get the best from our schools no matter what happens, writes Leora Cruddas Despite our best efforts, the Education Endowment Foundation’s rapid evidence review suggests that school closures are likely to widen the attainment gap between disadvantaged children and their peers by as […]

A week in the life of Jane Manzone

Jane Manzone and her year 6 class adapt to a brave new normal I had a few bizarre dreams before I went back to school this week.  Hazard tape and metre rulers featured heavily, as did an odd militaristic incarnation of a rather unassuming member of staff who had been put in charge of “social […]

Diversity cannot be a curriculum bolt-on

Educators from all backgrounds and contexts have been asking for guidance on curriculum reform in the light of recent events. Bennie Kara sets out some key principles The killing of George Floyd in Minneapolis, the realisation that black, Asian, and minority ethnic people are more likely to die of Covid-19 and the global response to […]

Tackling racism is about more than curriculum

Education is key to tackling racism, says Jeffery Quaye. But what obstacles have school leaders and teachers had to overcome when it comes to race and what does the future hold? The senseless and horrific killing of George Floyd in Minneapolis has ignited a global discussion about racism and the need for change. It has […]

Patchwork AP provision needs a tailor’s eye

There’s been a welcome policy focus on vulnerable students throughout the coronavirus crisis, but little evidence of a strategic response. Jo Hutchinson lists foundations for a new approach The government last week announced that “up to” £750 would be made available for each pupil in alternative provision (AP) to aid their transition into post-16 education […]