Samantha Price, headmistress of Benenden School, has said the Labour’s Party's policy of taxing independent school fees would lead to the closure of some schools. Speaking to The Times, Ms Price warned: “When people talk about independent schools, they’re thinking in the context of Eton or other very wealthy, well-resourced institutions. But a lot of independent schools are just trying to break even. The spectrum of schools is huge and that’s not taken into account at all." By Nicola Woolcock. 

An increasing number of pupils from UK independent schools are seeking places at non-Ivy League American universities, The Times reports. Reference is made to Millfield School, where 46 of this summer’s leavers are now starting degrees in the US - one in six of the cohort and up from 29 last year. The University of Chicago is the most popular US university for independently educated British school leavers, according to figures from the latest Independent Schools Council (ISC) census. Helen Pike, master of Magdalen College School, is quoted on the growing popularity of such institutions and encourages applicants to consider all options, "not just Harvard". By Nicola Woolcock and Shayma Bakht.

The equalities watchdog has ruled that schools will no longer automatically be breaking the law if they refuse to refer to pupils by their chosen name or gender. Previously, the Equality and Human Rights Commission had said that failing to refer to a female child by their “adopted male name” and call them a boy would be “direct” discrimination, but has now deleted the guidance following complaints by campaigners. By Oliver Wright and Steven Swinford, The Times. 

Sir Peter Lampl has expressed his support for Rishi Sunak's plans to replace A-levels with a wider baccalaureate. The Sutton Trust founder has said restricting teenagers to just three subjects at A-level is "crazy" and "incredibly narrow". By Will Hazell, The Telegraph.

Sir Keir Starmer has denounced Mr Sunak's plan to overhaul A-levels as an “undeliverable gimmick” that is creating uncertainty. According to The Guardian, a number of education leaders have criticised the plans and have said ministers should focus on increasing investment and improving teacher recruitment rather than radical curriculum changes. By Richard Adams.

As the Liberal Democrat Conference begins in Bournemouth this week, Tes outlines the key education policy proposals that are set to be unveiled. Increasing the pupil premium and eligibility for free school meals (FSM) are expected to be the party's key priorities for schools. By Jasmine Norden.

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