Top stories
The government has announced plans for new vocational and 'stepping stone' qualifications for post-16 pupils. The Skills White Paper details the proposed introduction of V-level courses as vocational options alongside A-levels and T-levels, while also putting forward new ‘preparation for GCSE level 1 qualifications’ for pupils who do not pass their GCSEs in English and maths [Schools Week].
Read our article to understand how Ofsted will inspect your school's post-16 provision, and the evidence inspectors will consider under the 2025 inspection framework.
A new report is advocating for a national strategy for teacher training to put an end to widespread financial waste. The study, from the Teacher Development Trust, estimates that the UK spends around £1 billion annually on CPD, but a significant portion of the investment is ineffective due to issues with access and the quality of provision [Schools Week].
Read our article to get to grips with the purpose of a self-evaluation form (SEF), which senior leaders can use to identify areas for training and development.
Bridget Phillipson has set an ambitious 90 per cent target for schools in the year 1 phonics screening check. The government wants to see 9 out of 10 pupils achieving the required standard in the reading test by 2030, highlighting a renewed focus on early literacy [Tes magazine - subscription required].
Use our article to understand the role of the literacy link governor and see examples of questions you can ask literacy subject leaders to challenge and support them.
The bigger picture
Members of a neo-Nazi group have been jailed for plotting terror attacks on UK mosques and synagogues. The 3 men were found to have “expressed hatred for, and desire and willingness to engage in serious violence” [The Guardian].
For your next board meeting, consider:
How effectively does our PSHE curriculum address fake news and help pupils to stay safe online?
What are our staff training needs regarding preventing radicalisation and are staff clear on the signs that a child might be in danger of radicalisation?
What else can our school do to target extremist views and promote British Values?
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