Feature Articles

Pupils with special educational needs (SEN) have arguably been overlooked in the current Ofsted framework. In this article, Suzanne O’Connell highlights the importance of reviewing your SEN practice, particularly in light of the proposed changes.

Nigel Baker highlights some recent developments in the education field.

Ofsted is to check that schools are entering enough pupils for the English Baccalaureate (EBacc) under its new “quality of education” judgment which shifts the focus from accountability measures. Heads say this suggests Ofsted has a preferred “academic” curriculum which undermines school autonomy. It is also unfair, since a shortage of modern foreign language teachers affects some schools’ ability to hit the target of 90% of pupils sitting the EBacc core GCSEs by 2025.

In April, new employment laws will force organisations to change how they work. There will be hikes in the National Living Wage (NLW) and National Minimum Wage (NMW), bigger pension contributions and a major overhaul to payslips. Listed below are the legal changes businesses need to know about, with advice on how to prepare for the upcoming changes. For professional advice on dealing with any HR or payroll matters, speak to a qualified consultant on our helpline on 0844 561 8149.

HSE has updated its online guidance on the provision of first aid at work to include brief advice on how to decide whether it is “beneficial” to provide trained personnel to identify and support workers who might be experiencing a mental health issue.

How often have unsatisfactory employees been dismissed, and then won compensation from their ex-employer? Unfortunately, too often, says Bob Patchett.

February is seen as the month of love; with Valentine’s Day ensuring everyone’s mind is focused on the romantic side of life. Workplace romances, however, may not be all hearts and flowers; here we look at the downsides to office romances.

John Walker considers how carefully limiting teacher intervention can embody challenge for learners and improve their independence — especially in science education.

The Mental Health Foundation estimates that 1 in 10 children and young people in the UK are affected by mental health problems. They estimate that about 70% do not receive appropriate interventions to help them at a sufficiently early age. Here are 10 key things that schools can do to help pupils with mental health issues to get the support they need.

The workplace can be a key battleground in the fight against cancer, particularly if there are potential risks from ionising radiation and carcinogenic substances. Jon Herbert reports on the key facts.