ISC Daily News Summary

In a property feature, The Telegraph considers how some former independent school buildings are being repurposed, noting that a number are now being converted into special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) schools to meet rising demand. The paper highlights Coombe House, formerly St Mary’s School, which closed in 2020 and was later purchased by Dorset Council. An accompanying information panel refers to the government's VAT on fees policy. By Noah Eastwood.

In a letter to The Times, Dr Michael Gray, executive headmaster of Hereford Cathedral School, criticises MPs for rejecting an amendment to ban social media for under-16s. He says schools see daily evidence of the harm caused by platforms "designed to maximise engagement, not childhood wellbeing", with effects including anxiety, sleep deprivation and online bullying. Calling for legislation to set clearer limits for young people, Dr Gray concludes: "We do not allow children to buy alcohol, gamble online or drive cars because we recognise the principle that freedom requires maturity. Social media should be treated no differently."
The letter appears halfway down the page.

Schools have been advised that young people's drawings could be considered blasphemous under Islamic law. Advice issued to teachers by Labour councils in northern England warns that images made by pupils in art lessons could be seen as "idolatrous" under sharia. The guidance, first issued in 2022, was designed to help teachers adapt to religious sensitivities and also warns that music and dance classes could be contrary to the teachings of Islam. Similar advice has been issued by councils in other parts of England, warning that some Muslim families may object to representational art or certain forms of music. The article is accompanied by a map showing councils with religious sensitivity guidance for teachers. By Craig Simpson, The Telegraph.

ITV News explores what V-levels are, how they compare to other post-16 qualifications, and what their introduction suggests for the future of education in the UK. The broadcaster also notes that Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer yesterday set a new target to see two-thirds of young people in higher education, technical or vocational training, or undertaking a "gold standard" apprenticeship, by the age of 25. 

Writing in Tes, Mark Leppard MBE, headmaster of The British School Al Khubairat in the United Arab Emirates and chair of British Schools in the Middle East, looks at how international schools in the region and beyond have come together amid the escalating conflict. Highlighting associations including HMC - The Heads' Conference and the Council of British International Schools (COBIS) as examples of organisations supporting one another, he adds: "I always believe that it is in a time of difficulty and challenge when you see who really cares and is willing to support. Fortunately, so many have stood tall and offered a shoulder to colleagues."