In the ISC's latest blog, Michelle Catterson, head of Moon Hall School, Reigate, reflects on the need for open dialogue following the launch of the Schools White Paper, and highlights the invaluable contributions of independent special schools to their wider communities. "Our sector has so much to offer families and shouldn't be punished for highlighting all the wonderful work we do in supporting young people", she writes.

Under new government plans, maths and science GCSE students will not have to memorise formulae and equations for their exams until at least 2030. The government has asked the exams watchdog, Ofqual, to extend current arrangements, providing GCSE maths, physics, and combined science students with formula sheets. Ofqual’s consultation is open until March 23. Criticising the decision, shadow education secretary Laura Trott said ministers "fail to understand we should believe all children can do better, not lowering the bar". By Jasmine Norden, The Independent. 

Writing in Tes, Emma Balchin, chief executive of the National Governance Association, says the Schools White Paper provides hope for a more inclusive education system and highlights the role of governors in steering schools towards this aim. "Good governance brings diverse insights, judgement and lived understanding, helping schools and trusts adapt more intelligently to change while managing risk and prioritising reforms sustainably", she explains.

School Management Plus looks at how schools in the Middle East are being affected by strikes in the region, with some moving to online learning. Colin Bell, chief executive of the Council of British International Schools (COBIS), which has members across affected countries, says the organisation has been in close contact with educators across the region to offer support. "At times like this, the strength of the international school community is particularly important, and we are committed to supporting our members and helping them remain connected during a very challenging period", he adds. By Irena Barker.

In an article for Schools Week, Sir Ian Bauckham, chief regulator of qualifications at Ofqual, says we must all do more to prevent artificial intelligence (AI) coursework cheating. He explains that exam boards, schools and teachers have important roles to play, but adds: "By having honest conversations with students about the risks, both the formal consequences and the gaps in their learning, you are not just enforcing rules. You are safeguarding their futures."

Answering questions in the House of Commons yesterday afternoon, Bridget Phillipson said individual support plans will create "EHCP-like support without the fight to get that EHCP". The education secretary also said parents "should seek to resolve" issues over the government's special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) plans "directly with the school", with ministers looking to strengthen the parental complaints process. Schools Week was following the session and has posted its social media updates in one article. By Ruth Lucas.

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