A ‘ni hao’ from Chinese visitors was the ultimate language lesson Saying ‘hello’ to pupils from Nanjing brought learning to life, but anything that adds context can ignite a child’s interest, says Cara Bleiman
Gove’s traditionalists won, but now they see what was lost Militant discipline and explicit instruction delivered higher exam grades, but the debate has moved on as pupils disengage from school, says Jon Hutchinson
Pupil premium paperwork reveals schools snub effective strategies Our review of 550 pupil premium strategies found many schools aren’t strategic at all – which suggests leaders need help to use evidence effectively, says Emma Dobson
Repairs to the school-parent contract must come from the top The situation is not irreparable, and the first small steps have already been taken towards forging a more positive home-school relationship
Flexible working should be an opportunity not a burden The Employment Rights Act means schools must properly consider a staff member’s request for flexible working – but that change could benefit leaders, says Lindsay Patience
Three lessons to give schools great governance Experience shows that governors can provide powerful insights into the wider community, while others share their professional strategic know-how, says Ian Dewes
The case for clearer Holocaust curriculum guidance Teaching and learning about the Holocaust is not easy. And the evidence is suggesting our teachers and students need more support
Why Holocaust education matters more than ever, and how schools can lead the way If schools step up, they can ensure that the next generation inherits not only the facts of the Holocaust but the moral clarity that must accompany them
Our trust peer reviews provide lessons for upcoming legislation Our experience could guide the blueprint for trust inspections, says Kate Chhatwal