Young people need more support during lockdown

New research has revealed that many indicators of poor mental health and well-being are amplified in young people during lockdown.

Councillors call for free school meals during holidays

Councillors across England have written to the government calling for free school meals to be provided over the half-term and summer breaks.

Pressure growing for clarification for when playgrounds can re-open

The government should set out the phase in which a return to children’s outdoor play in playgrounds will be considered.

Councils need powers to close schools amid clusters

Councils will need the power to close schools or nurseries if testing indicates clusters of new coronavirus cases.

Re-opening schools guidance lacks detail, says union

A Teachers’ Union has reviewed the guidance issued by the government and is highlighting serious and fundamental concerns with it.

Scramble for ‘golden ticket’ for children with SEND

The Public Accounts Committee has claimed that many children with SEND are seeing their education damaged by failings in provision.

Government childcare eligibility offers protected

Parents who are normally eligible for the government’s childcare offers will continue receiving the entitlements during the summer term.

Child abuse calls to NSPCC up by a fifth

Since the start of the coronavirus lockdown there has been an almost 20 per cent increase in calls to the NSPCC about child abuse.

£700 catch-up premium for poorer pupils

A catch-up premium of £700 for every pupil on free school meals should be given to secondary schools when they reopen.

Clarity sought on relaxation of special needs duties

Councils and their partners need greater flexibility to meet the needs of children with special educational needs.

Children with social workers behind peers in attainment

A new study has found that pupils with a social worker are educationally behind their peers by the age of 16.

Most parents do not feel confident teaching at home

New polling has revealed that only 42 per cent of parents feel confident about teaching their children at home.

Coronavirus: Academisation should be put on hold

Academy conversions should be suspended to help over-stretched councils focus on supporting schools to stay open, says LGA.

School closures play only 'marginal' role in containing coronavirus

A new study has suggested that school closures do not appear to have a significant effect on the spread of coronavirus.

Councils face lawsuits over lockdown education access

The government must ensure pupils from poor backgrounds have internet connections during the coronavirus lockdown or face legal action.

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Event Diary

Join the digital, data and technology community at DigiGov Expo – where public sector experts and innovators gain knowledge to transform government services.

The Workplace Event 2024

In an era marked by rapid technological advancements, shifting workplace cultures, and an increased focus on employee well-being, The Workplace Event (TWE) 2024 emerges as a beacon of insight, innovation, and inspiration. Taking place from April 30 - May 2 2024 at the NEC Birmingham, TWE  brings together over 5,000 workplace and facilities management professionals.