ISC Daily News Summary

Addressing delegates at Enlightened Education, the conference organised by the Headmasters’ and Headmistresses’ Conference (HMC) and the Independent Association of Prep Schools (IAPS), Kirsty Williams said Wales' education system was “increasingly developing a self-confidence”. Ms Williams, the country's former minister for education, was taking part in a panel discussion on how the four nations could share best practice. By Emma Seith, Tes.

A study commissioned by the Education Endowment Foundation (EEF) has found that a government-approved phonics programme has led to only limited advances in reading and 'almost no' progress in writing when compared to other similar phonics schemes. The study also looked at a catch-up phonics programme for pupils in years 5 to 8 and found it had a “negative impact” on remedial reading. By Matilda Martin, Tes.

The National Education Union (NEU) has proposed amendments to the definition of transphobia as the Department for Education (DfE) finalises transgender guidance for schools. The NEU's trans and non-binary network has proposed that anyone who expects transgender people “to participate in discussion or debate about their rights and/or identities” is transphobic. By Louisa Clarence-Smith, The Telegraph.

Jonathan Gullis, the schools minister, has been accused of a 'potential breach' of the MPs’ code for failing to declare a £7,200 donation towards a campaign for grammar schools which he allegedly received while he was a backbencher campaigning for the expansion of selective schools. It is understood that Mr Gullis has already written to the parliamentary commissioner for standards to apologise for the oversight and to formally mention the financial interest. By Peter Walker, The Guardian.

The Times reports that delegates at the SNP conference have praised the Scottish Government’s “renewed commitment” to give free school meals to pupils in every year of primary school. By Mark McLaughlin.

Members of the SNP have also supported proposals that would increase the school starting age in Scotland to six, with a mandatory play-based pre-school stage from the age of three. The motion was passed at the party's conference, but, according to BBC News, it will not necessarily become policy.

A study by STEER Education has found the mental health of pupils with special needs improved during the pandemic, in contrast to the negative experience of many young people. The findings suggest healthier coping skills, increased resilience and more trusting relationships were some of the positive side effects of lockdown for many pupils with additional needs. By Emma Yeomans, The Times.