Chief executive of the Independent Schools Council (ISC) Julie Robinson was interviewed by Martin Standford on LBC News yesterday, following the publication of a report by think tank the Institute of Fiscal Studies' (IFS) on the possible impact of Labour's plans to tax independent school fees. Ms Robinson said the pattern of change to schools who might be forced to close is very hard to predict, but warned that all sectors of education would be affected, not just independent schools. Ultimately, "what this is genuinely about is children", Ms Robinson explained.
To listen to the item, please skip to 02:11:30.

Two correspondents have letters published in today's Telegraph on the issue of Labour's plans to tax independent school fees. One writes of the policy's potential impact on the children of military personnel, while the other warns: "Such a move would have a disastrous effect on those children – well off and poor – who need either the bursaries or specialist education that the private sector can offer."
The letters appear at the end of the page.

Offering a 6.5 per cent pay rise to teachers alone is “unlikely” to make a “significant difference” in improving teacher supply, according to a report published today by the National Foundation for Educational Research (NFER). By Matilda Martin, Tes.

The proportion of Key Stage 2 children reaching the expected standard in all three areas of reading, writing and maths is unchanged from last year, showing no recovery to pre-pandemic levels, Tes reports. Overall, 59 per cent of Year 6 pupils met the expected standard in all three areas, the same as 2022’s “disappointing” results. By Matilda Martin.

iNews explains the scaled scores and national averages for this year's Sats. By Joanna Whitehead.

The Telegraph features an interview with James Handscombe, executive principal of Harris Westminster sixth-form academy, who recently announced his decision to do away with the terms “Sir” and “Miss". Reference is made to Westminster School, which supports the academy with shared expertise and certain lessons, such as Latin and music. Later in the interview, Mr Handscombe outlines his views on Labour's plans to tax independent school fees.

Writing in Independent School Management Plus, lawyer Louise Brenlund calls on schools to be aware of their legal obligations to support the mental health of staff. Ms Brenlund urges school leaders to introduce a wellbeing strategy and policy along with staff wellbeing support such as workplace sessions around stress.

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