ISC Daily News Summary

More than 300 teachers have started a legal claim, on the grounds they have suffered age discrimination, following changes to the Teachers' Pension Scheme (TPS). By Dave Speck, Tes.

Marianna Hunt writes in The Telegraph about parents who are having to pay a lot of money to live within the catchment area of a top state school. She says "in some places, opting for the private system can leave parents £5,000 a year better off". The paper also features some of the "best value" independent prep schools, still accepting applications for September.

The Times reports there is less competition this autumn for parents to get their child into a primary school, due to a falling birthrate and a greater number of places. By Nicola Woolcock.

Author Robert Verkaik writes in iNews about IGCSE examinations, which are no longer taken by state school pupils. He debates whether these exams are easier and are therefore providing "more advantages" for privately educated pupils. The article quotes Simon Reid, headmaster of Christ's Hospital School (CHS), as well as a number of CHS pupils. Comments by Julie Robinson, chief executive of the Independent Schools Council, are also featured.

According to Oxford University's latest admission figures, two state school pupils were offered a place for every privately educated student this year. By Camilla Turner, The Telegraph.

New proposed guidelines could see county lines drug dealers facing longer prison sentences if they use children. By Charles Hymas, The Telegraph.

The Duke of Edinburgh Award (DofE) has published a list of 25 experiences for young people to try before leaving school. Among the recommendations are trying a vegan diet and having a digital detox. By Jessica Carpani, The Telegraph.

A mother of a three-year-old has lodged a petition at the Scottish Parliament calling for allergy training to be a legal requirement in schools and nurseries. BBC News.