Articles
Important changes to the Academy Trust Handbook regarding confidentiality clauses
15 Dec 2025The Department for Education's update to the Academy Trust Handbook in October 2025 has significantly changed the way in which confidentiality clauses can be used by academies, including in settlement agreements. Academies need to be aware of these changes to ensure compliance and avoid potential issues.
From patchwork to programme – The DfE’s estates strategy and the race to remove RAAC by 2029
15 Dec 2025In October, the Department for Education (DfE) announced new timetables for the removal of reinforced autoclaved aerated concrete (RAAC) from schools and colleges in England.
Forthcoming changes to QTS – Navigating grey areas and preparing for the future
15 Dec 2025From September 2026, significant changes will come into effect regarding Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) for newly recruited teachers in state-funded schools in England.
The Office of the Schools Adjudicator Annual Report: Key takeaways for academies and maintained schools' admission arrangements
27 Nov 2025The Office of the School's Adjudicator's (OSA) annual report provides admission authorities with a timely reminder to check their admission arrangements ahead of the statutory consultation window opening on 1 October.
Collaboration between schools: Rising to current challenges
26 Nov 2025The schools sector continues to face significant challenges as it prepares for the upcoming Schools White Paper, expected in January. This is anticipated to focus on inclusion and the growing need for schools to support students with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) effectively, whether in mainstream or specialist settings.
The Employment Rights Bill: why now is the time to review staffing arrangements
19 Nov 2025With major reforms to dismissal rights on the horizon, independent schools have only a limited window to review staffing models and implement any planned contractual changes before flexibility is significantly reduced.
