ISC Daily News Summary

In an interview with The Telegraph amid the publication of his new children's book, Alexander Armstrong shares his frustration over the government's VAT on fees policy. The comedian and presenter explains that all four of his children attend independent schools, which he describes as a necessity rather than a luxury - particularly for his youngest son, who has special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) and "couldn’t survive in the state system". Mr Armstrong argues that the independent sector is the only option for accessing the music education his children need and expresses anger at the "tribal" and "vituperative" nature of Labour’s policy, especially its implementation midway through the school year. By Ed Cumming. 

A special five-part investigation by Schools Week has found education, health and care plans (EHCPs) to be failing the most vulnerable children. The paper explores what England's £11 billion high needs budget is being spent on, and how some poor-quality EHCPs include "copy and paste" elements and even the the wrong child’s name. Analysis of Ofsted area SEND inspections as part of the investigation has found that plans to support pupils with additional needs are often being drawn up without any input from health and social care, and the practicalities of a national institute for SEND excellence are explored, amid increasing calls for its establishment. All articles are by John Dickens. In an accompanying comment piece, teacher and parent Ben Newmark writes: "We must do better for pupils with SEND whose education is so often made worse by interventions that are meant to be supporting them." 

A national toothbrushing programme will see school and nursery staff in the most deprived areas of England asked to supervise young children while they brush their teeth. Although schemes have been running in some schools for several years, ministers have now said that dedicated central funding will reach the poorest areas where young people are most at risk of tooth decay. While dental experts have reacted positively to the news, the National Association of Head Teachers has urged caution to avoid shifting "what is ultimately a parental responsibility on to the burden on schools". By Smitha Mundasad, BBC News.

Leading paediatricians have joined calls for a total ban on smacking children in England, arguing there is no evidence it benefits their wellbeing. At present, smacking is illegal in England, unless it qualifies as "reasonable punishment". The Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health (RCPCH) is now calling for that legal defence to be scrapped, via an amendment to legislation currently in progress. By Nathan Standley, BBC News. 

New scientific research confirms that the steps schools took to introduce social distancing, mask-wearing, and class bubbles during the Covid-19 pandemic played a significant role in reducing the spread of infection. Tes examines the findings, which could help inform how schools manage future outbreaks of colds and flu. By Ellen Peirson-Hagger.