Articles

The EAT has clarified the correct approach to contributory conduct and reinstatement where an employee was dismissed following a series of Facebook posts about a workplace grievance.

The government has published a summary of stakeholder feedback on the forthcoming unfair dismissal reforms, alongside regulations confirming that the changes will take effect from 1 January 2027.

The King’s Speech 2026 confirmed that the Bill is intended to “raise standards in schools and introduce generational reforms of the special educational needs system”, with a clear shift towards a more inclusive, mainstream-led model of support.

The Children's Wellbeing and Schools Act 2026 (the Act) received Royal Assent on 29 April 2026. The Act represents one of the most significant packages of education reform in recent years: it introduces wide-ranging changes affecting academies, maintained schools, local authorities and safeguarding partners, including reforms to teacher regulation, academy oversight, admissions, curriculum requirements, attendance, home education and children's social care. 

The Renters' Rights Act 2025 (the Act), which came into effect on 1 May 2026, is significantly changing the private rented sector in England. Whilst this affects the whole of the private rental market, it also impacts tenancies provided by maintained schools and academies to staff members or private residential tenants.

Recruitment shortages, industrial relations tensions and new employment legislation are creating a challenging environment for FE colleges. Here is what leadership and HR teams need to know.