Secondary schools that impose an effective ban on smartphones gain better exam results and are also twice as likely to be rated "outstanding" by Ofsted as the national average, according to a new report. The analysis from the Policy Exchange think tank drew on Freedom of Information responses from 162 secondary schools in England. They conclude that there is a "clear correlation" between banning mobile phones during school hours and better student performance. By Sky News.

Teachers have been asked to warn students against the dangers of sextortion, a form of blackmail involving threats that intimate pictures will be shared. The National Crime Agency (NCA) sent the "unprecedented warning" to teachers on Monday after cases surged. James Babbage, the director general for threats at the NCA, said: "A lot of victims feel responsible but we need them to know this is absolutely not the case; you are not to blame and help and support is available." By Malu Cursino and Angus Crawford, BBC News.

All schools should establish a “bomb threat checklist” to prepare for potential terrorism attacks, advises the Department for Education. All educational settings - including early years, schools and alternative provision - should also appoint a “security lead” to help “promote a good security culture”. Tes summarises the seven points of the non-statutory guidance on how to respond to terrorism released today. By Matilda Martin.

The Welsh government has been urged to redraft its guidance on school meals after a "snapshot" survey found only a minority felt full after their lunch. Wales' children's commissioner, Rocio Cifuentes, said the "overwhelming" message from the responses from over 1,700 Welsh pupils was a concern because "in this current cost of living crisis, so many children are relying on that school dinner as their main meal". By Bethan Lewis, BBC News.

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