Schools minister and Ofqual Chief Regulator questioned on exam standards in 2021

Schools minister Nick Gibb and Chief Regulator at Ofqual Dame Glenys Stacey took questions on exams in 2021 from the Education Select Committee on Tuesday. Both were questioned by the chair of the committee, Robert Halfon MP, about grade inflation, and whether or not this was likely to do anything to address the disadvantage gap. …

Local business donates to school food banks

Northumberland based PR and design agency Fusion PR has donated to support schools in the region who are providing food for their students and local communities.  With the ongoing effects of the pandemic having a huge impact on disadvantaged communities, food provision for students has been a huge topic in education, with Free School Meals …

North East school leaders respond to exams announcement

Last week a major announcement revealed measures to postpone Ofsted, suspend school league tables and make adjustments to exams and testing. After weeks of speculation over what this could involve, an announcement was a relief for staff, but it is also clear that the measures don’t go far enough. We asked school leaders how they …

Closing the North East Disadvantage Gap

Schools North East and the North East Child Poverty Commission held a virtual panel this week to discuss the disadvantage gap in our region and the impact that the Covid pandemic is having on this issue. Amanda Bailey of the North East Child Poverty Commission chaired the event, outlining the existing challenges of disadvantage and …

Relief as DfE announces measures for 2021 exams and tests and Ofsted

After months of uncertainty the Department for Education has finally released measures for 2021 exams in England, providing direction for staff and students. The measures include adjustments for exams, postponement of Ofsted inspections and cancellation of KS1 SATs.  What are your views on the announcement? Please complete our short survey to let us know. Primary …

The importance of place highlighted in inquiry into left behind white pupils

The Education Select Committee continued its inquiry into left behind white pupils from disadvantaged backgrounds on Tuesday taking evidence from a range of organisations. As in previous sessions, the importance of place was emphasised. Matt Leach, CEO of Local Trust, said that white disadvantaged pupils are often concentrated in areas that combine deprivation and a …