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Education 2 weeks ago

Research Reveals Widest Attainment Gap Emerges in Early Years

New research indicates that the attainment gap between disadvantaged children and their peers is wider during the early years than at any other education phase. The findings emphasise the critical importance of early intervention and support services to address inequality before children begin primary school.

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School Suspensions Fall in England for First Time Since Pandemic
Schools Jul 9, 2026

School Suspensions Fall in England for First Time Since Pandemic

Recent data indicates a welcome decline in school suspensions across England for the first time since the Covid-19 pandemic, suggesting that intensive support for pupils is beginning to reverse post-lockdown behavioural challenges. Ministers recognise the "pernicious legacy" of disrupted education whilst praising teachers for helping vulnerable children turn a corner and re-engage with learning.

Renowned autism researcher regrets 'extreme male brain' terminology
SEND Jul 5, 2026

Renowned autism researcher regrets 'extreme male brain' terminology

Professor Simon Baron-Cohen has stated that his 'extreme male brain' theory of autism has been misunderstood and the terminology is unhelpful. He challenges the myth that autistic people lack empathy, clarifying that the condition involves a tendency towards systemising over empathising. The revised understanding has significant implications for how education and care professionals support neurodivergent children.

Disadvantaged White Pupils Face Severe Reading Gap at Primary School Transition
Education Jul 4, 2026

Disadvantaged White Pupils Face Severe Reading Gap at Primary School Transition

New analysis reveals that one-third of disadvantaged white pupils in England leave primary school unable to read well enough to access the secondary curriculum. The findings highlight significant attainment gaps compared to peers from other ethnic backgrounds and wealthier counterparts, contributing to rising disengagement and school absence.

Work experience access 'deeply unequal' despite cutting NEET risk by 80%
Inclusion Jul 3, 2026

Work experience access 'deeply unequal' despite cutting NEET risk by 80%

New research reveals that work experience can reduce a young person's risk of becoming NEET by 80 per cent, yet access to these crucial opportunities remains heavily dependent on parental networks and social capital. The findings highlight a significant barrier to social mobility, with disadvantaged young people less likely to secure placements that could transform their employment prospects.

Putting anti-racism into practice: A Welsh primary school's journey
Schools Jul 1, 2026

Putting anti-racism into practice: A Welsh primary school's journey

Dr Stella Louis and Hannah Betteridge explore how one primary school in Wales has successfully translated anti-racist policy into meaningful everyday action. Their case study offers valuable insights for education leaders seeking to embed equity, belonging and cultural responsiveness across their settings.

Anti-Racist Practice in Action: Lessons from a Welsh Primary School
Schools Jul 1, 2026

Anti-Racist Practice in Action: Lessons from a Welsh Primary School

In the final instalment of this series, Dr Stella Louis and Hannah Betteridge examine how one primary school in Wales has successfully translated anti-racist policy into everyday practice. Their case study offers practical guidance for leaders seeking to foster genuinely inclusive school cultures.

A million young lives on hold: The urgent case for earlier mental health intervention
Policy Jun 30, 2026

A million young lives on hold: The urgent case for earlier mental health intervention

The Children's Commissioner for England has highlighted that one million young people are awaiting mental health support, with many calling for intervention to begin before crisis hits. Drawing on responses from The Big Future consultation, the article argues for a fundamental shift toward early prevention rather than reactive treatment.

Inquiry Finds Education System Failing White Working Class Pupils
Education Jun 29, 2026

Inquiry Finds Education System Failing White Working Class Pupils

A landmark inquiry has found that the education system is "not serving the interests of white working class children". The report calls for a clear definition of "white working class" to ensure these pupils receive targeted support and do not continue to fall through the cracks.