- Some independent schools will be forced to close under Labour's tax plans, head warns
- More independent school pupils looking to lesser-known US universities
- Strikes disrupt start of term at more than 50 universities
- Schools must offer changing rooms for pupils based on sex at birth, equalities watchdog says
- Prime minister's A-level reform proposals prompt debate
- Liberal Democrat Conference 2023: Key education priorities
Some independent schools will be forced to close under Labour's tax plans, head warns
Independent sectorSamantha Price, headmistress of Benenden School, has said the Labour’s Party's policy of taxing independent school fees would lead to the closure of some schools. Speaking to The Times, Ms Price warned: “When people talk about independent schools, they’re thinking in the context of Eton or other very wealthy, well-resourced institutions. But a lot of independent schools are just trying to break even. The spectrum of schools is huge and that’s not taken into account at all." By Nicola Woolcock.
More independent school pupils looking to lesser-known US universities
Independent sectorAn increasing number of pupils from UK independent schools are seeking places at non-Ivy League American universities, The Times reports. Reference is made to Millfield School, where 46 of this summer’s leavers are now starting degrees in the US - one in six of the cohort and up from 29 last year. The University of Chicago is the most popular US university for independently educated British school leavers, according to figures from the latest Independent Schools Council (ISC) census. Helen Pike, master of Magdalen College School, is quoted on the growing popularity of such institutions and encourages applicants to consider all options, "not just Harvard". By Nicola Woolcock and Shayma Bakht.
Strikes disrupt start of term at more than 50 universities
Strike actionStaff at more than 50 UK universities are walking out today as part of a long-running dispute by members of the University and College Union (UCU) over pay and conditions. UCU members at 42 universities are striking for five days, while staff will strike for one day at a further 10 institutions. By Vanessa Clarke, BBC News.
Schools must offer changing rooms for pupils based on sex at birth, equalities watchdog says
Gender identityThe equalities watchdog has ruled that schools will no longer automatically be breaking the law if they refuse to refer to pupils by their chosen name or gender. Previously, the Equality and Human Rights Commission had said that failing to refer to a female child by their “adopted male name” and call them a boy would be “direct” discrimination, but has now deleted the guidance following complaints by campaigners. By Oliver Wright and Steven Swinford, The Times.
Prime minister's A-level reform proposals prompt debate
ExaminationsSir Peter Lampl has expressed his support for Rishi Sunak's plans to replace A-levels with a wider baccalaureate. The Sutton Trust founder has said restricting teenagers to just three subjects at A-level is "crazy" and "incredibly narrow". By Will Hazell, The Telegraph.
Sir Keir Starmer has denounced Mr Sunak's plan to overhaul A-levels as an “undeliverable gimmick” that is creating uncertainty. According to The Guardian, a number of education leaders have criticised the plans and have said ministers should focus on increasing investment and improving teacher recruitment rather than radical curriculum changes. By Richard Adams.
Liberal Democrat Conference 2023: Key education priorities
Education policyAs the Liberal Democrat Conference begins in Bournemouth this week, Tes outlines the key education policy proposals that are set to be unveiled. Increasing the pupil premium and eligibility for free school meals (FSM) are expected to be the party's key priorities for schools. By Jasmine Norden.