AI-Curated News

Children's News Feed

Automatically curated from DfE announcements, education news, and sector updates.

Categories

Sensory Art in Early Years: Children Create Immersive Exhibition
Education May 1, 2026

Sensory Art in Early Years: Children Create Immersive Exhibition

An early years setting has demonstrated the value of sensory play by supporting children to create an immersive art exhibition. The project showcases how creative, sensory-rich experiences encourage exploration and support child development across the Early Years Foundation Stage.

Words in the Wild: Building Vocabulary Through Outdoor Exploration
Education May 1, 2026

Words in the Wild: Building Vocabulary Through Outdoor Exploration

Outdoor exploration offers rich opportunities for young children to develop language and communication skills. By engaging with the natural environment and discovering 'treasures' in the wild, children expand their vocabulary and build descriptive language in meaningful contexts.

Bringing Babies Back to Nature: A Froebelian Approach to Outdoor Learning
Education May 1, 2026

Bringing Babies Back to Nature: A Froebelian Approach to Outdoor Learning

Researchers from the babyNENE project share how a Froebelian-inspired nature pedagogy is helping early years practitioners rethink outdoor experiences for babies and toddlers. This first instalment explores the theoretical foundations and practical reflections needed to support the youngest children in connecting with the natural world.

Ofsted reforms: How the new school inspection ratings system works
Schools Apr 30, 2026

Ofsted reforms: How the new school inspection ratings system works

Following the tragic death of headteacher Ruth Perry, Ofsted has replaced its single-word judgement system to reduce pressure on school leaders. The new framework provides separate sub-judgements whilst maintaining rigorous accountability for standards.

Early Years Careers: Standing Out in a Competitive Jobs Market
Education Apr 29, 2026

Early Years Careers: Standing Out in a Competitive Jobs Market

As the early years sector faces increasing competition for skilled practitioners, both employers and candidates must adapt their strategies to attract talent and progress careers. This article explores how nursery settings can distinguish themselves as employers of choice whilst practitioners develop the expertise needed to advance in the childcare profession.

Smartphones in schools: Why the new statutory ban barely scratches the surface
Schools Apr 22, 2026

Smartphones in schools: Why the new statutory ban barely scratches the surface

The UK government's decision to impose a statutory ban on mobile phones in English schools reflects a crisis far deeper than classroom distraction. Teachers report that smartphones have become 'the tobacco of our age', fuelling addiction, safeguarding concerns, and widening attainment gaps. Whilst welcome, enforcement presents significant practical challenges for headteachers already managing tight resources.