Dr Andrew Cunningham, a former teacher at two independent schools, writes in the Daily Express on Labour's plans to tax independent school fees, which he believes will "only make British education even more elitist". Dr Cunningham warns: "There will inevitably be many private school parents who couldn’t pay the higher fees that ending tax relief would inevitably lead to."

Reference is made to research by the Independent Schools Council (ISC) and several schools in membership of the ISC's constituent associations are mentioned. The article also quotes a number of independent school heads and parents from the sector who share their concerns over Labour's proposals. 

In a letter published in today's Telegraph, headmistress at Benenden School Samantha Price outlines the school's position on gender identity, in light of a recent article in the paper. Ms Price writes: "Our policy is written with the wellbeing of young people at its heart so that every student feels that they can seek support and be heard if they are uncertain about where they fit, whether that relates to sexuality, race, religion or cultural beliefs." She adds: "There is frustration in many quarters that the Government has been so slow to issue schools guidance on gender identity, and I know I speak on behalf of school leaders when I say we share this frustration."

The letter appears halfway down the page.

The Scotsman's 'Independent Schools Guide' explores the financial assistance available to independent school parents in Scotland, for example the Scottish Government’s Aided Places Scheme. A number of schools in membership of the ISC's constituent associations are mentioned, outlining the financial support they offer. By Sarah Devine. 

Answering questions about reinforced autoclaved aerated concrete (RAAC) in the House of Commons yesterday, education secretary Gillian Keegan said children are “happy” in portable buildings and prefer them to their usual classrooms. The article is accompanied by a map showing the presence of RAAC in schools by geographical location. By Nicola Woolcock, The Times.

Baroness Barran, the education minister leading the government’s response to the RAAC crisis in schools, gave evidence to ministers yesterday alongside Department for Education (DfE) permanent secretary Susan Acland-Hood. Schools Week summarises the key takeaways from the session. By Freddie Whittaker. 

Researchers at the Education Policy Institute (EPI) have identified a “shadow” group of pupils who have special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) but lack an education, health and care plan (EHCP) and need more support. By John Roberts, Tes. 

Children whose fathers read, play, sing and draw with them show a “small but significant” increase in their educational outcomes at primary school, according to research by the University of Leeds. The findings suggest just 10 minutes a day could make a difference. By Sally Weale, The Guardian. 

Writing in Independent School Management Plus, education consultant Dr Helen Kelly warns that it is counterproductive for schools to view hard work as the key measure of their value. Dr Kelly explains why taking short breaks can be helpful in maximising efficiency and supporting the mental wellbeing of staff.

In a blog to mark National Coding Week, Claire Ziwa, director of communications at The Perse School, outlines how the Perse Coding Team Challenge is inspiring pupils to broaden their interest in computer science, while boosting their creativity and teamwork skills.

The Independent Schools Council (ISC) monitors the national and educational press in order to keep independent schools up-to-date with relevant education news. The DNS is a service primarily for schools in membership of ISC associations, although other interested parties can choose to sign-up. We endeavour to include relevant news and commentary and, wherever possible, notable public letters. Where capacity allows, we may include links to ISC blogs, press statements and information about school or association events. News stories are selected based on their relevance to the independent sector as a whole. Editorial control of the DNS remains solely with the ISC.

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