Writing in Independent School Management Plus, Antony Spencer explains how Mill Hill Education Group (MHEG) has evolved from a cluster of four local schools (including Mill Hill School) to its current 12-strong UK network. With its first international school set to open soon, Mr Spencer, MHEG's chief executive, reflects on the key lessons learned through the rapid transformation that has taken place amid mounting financial pressures, including the imposition of VAT on fees. "Having a clear long-term strategy is vital at a time when tactical survival can be an all-consuming priority. We devised our strategy early in 2020, taking account of long-term financial trends, demographics, structural changes in education and changing parental expectations," he writes. 

The government's Strategic Defence Review 2025 will see schoolchildren being taught about careers in the military and other defence issues to help prepare the UK for a future war. School-leavers will also be offered the opportunity to experience military life by joining the Armed Forces during a paid gap year before they go to university. According to the review, which is supported by prime minister Sir Keir Starmer, Britain must increase its readiness for conflict with Russia or another enemy by spreading awareness of defence throughout the "whole of society" and boosting army recruitment. The review adds that "building society’s understanding of what the Armed Forces do and increasing their visibility is imperative". By Jane Merrick and Richard Vaughan, iNews.

Gang members who force children to hide drugs in their bodies will face up to 10 years in prison under a new offence. Yvette Cooper, the home secretary, is planning to make an offence of "coerced internal concealment" that will protect children who are exploited by gangs to carry drugs, money and SIM cards in their bodies in an attempt to conceal them from police. The offence will come into effect through an amendment to the government's Crime and Policing Bill to cut down on the practice, which is widely used by county lines and other gangs to transport drugs. By Charles Hymas, The Telegraph.

Jess Phillips, the minister for safeguarding and violence against women and girls, has apologised to MPs for a delay to the publication of a report on grooming gangs. Earlier this year, ministers asked Baroness Casey to lead a "rapid" three-month audit into the data and evidence on the nature and scale of group-based child sexual abuse. Speaking in the House of Commons yesterday, Conservative frontbencher Katie Lam asked for an updated timeline as publication of the review had been expected in May. Ms Phillips said Baroness Casey had requested a "short extension" to her work and that it was expected "very shortly". By Kate Whannel, BBC News.

The Department for Education (DfE) has announced the appointment of a "school leader advisor" to bring "frontline expertise" to policymaking. Andrew O’Neill, headteacher at London's All Saints Catholic College, will take a 12-month secondment to undertake the role, which starts this week. Mr O'Neill's responsibilities will include helping develop strategies to "promote high and rising standards", as well as providing insights into effective engagement with schools. Tes.

In an article for Tes, Kevin Buchanan, education director at EdStart Schools, explains how the simple practice of pairing pupils with Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCPs) with peers for revision sessions can benefit both children simultaneously. Mr Buchanan highlights careful timetabling and teacher support as two important practical steps for educators to consider. Reflecting on the benefits of such a method, he writes: "This approach sits within our broader philosophy: that inclusive practice isn’t about doing something extra for a few students, it’s about designing an environment where all students can thrive." 

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