Private schools offer 41% more tree shade than state schools in England

Analysis reveals stark socioeconomic divide, with schools with highest free school meal eligibility having fewer trees

Private school grounds in England offer 41% more tree cover than state schools for cooling and shade in extreme temperatures, research has found.

As teachers and students prepare to take their summer holidays after weeks of high temperatures where some classrooms reached highs of 40C, an analysis of tree cover in schools in England reveals a stark socioeconomic divide.

Jul 16, 2026

Extend National Year of Reading to a Decade, Urges Education Committee

A parliamentary inquiry has called for the National Year of Reading to be extended to a decade-long initiative, alongside a new National Reading Guarantee. The Education Committee's recommendations aim to ensure all children have frequent opportunities to enjoy reading for pleasure.

Jul 16, 2026

Children's Commissioner receives honorary doctorate from Liverpool Hope University

Dame Rachel de Souza has been awarded an honorary doctorate by Liverpool Hope University in recognition of her work championing children's rights across England. Speaking to graduates at the ceremony, she expressed her gratitude and reflected on the importance of advocating for young people.

Jul 15, 2026

Professor Becky Francis: Evidence-Based Approaches to Developing Children's Communication Skills

Professor Becky Francis shares insights from recent research into effective strategies for supporting oracy and language development across early years and primary settings. The findings emphasise structured dialogic teaching and explicit vocabulary instruction as key to improving outcomes, particularly for disadvantaged pupils and those with additional needs.

Private schools offer 41% more tree shade than state schools in England

Comments (0)

Leave a Comment

Related Articles

Extend National Year of Reading to a Decade, Urges Education Committee

Children's Commissioner receives honorary doctorate from Liverpool Hope University

Professor Becky Francis: Evidence-Based Approaches to Developing Children's Communication Skills