Policy
The latest news, analysis and advice on government policy and legislation. Find a breakdown of new documentation, case studies from leaders and comment from high-profile educators
Wednesday
14th Jan 2026
Almost all teachers want under-18 social media limits, survey shows
Exclusive polling comes as the government appears to move towards greater regulation over children’s social media use
Exclusive
Ofqual boss: AI can’t take over exam marking any time soon
Writing exclusively for Tes, Ofqual chief Sir Ian Bauckham explains the difficulties AI would have to overcome to replace humans in marking national qualifications
Exclusive
SEND reform must protect children’s legal rights - not dilute them
With the government soon to announce reforms to the SEND system, two experts warn of the dangers of changing the existing legal framework for providing support
Tuesday
13th Jan 2026
Schools urgently need medical guidance, DfE told
Pupils and school staff are being left ‘extremely exposed’ because of a lack of guidance on supporting young people with medical conditions, MP warns
Ofqual chief reveals ‘anxiety’ about AI use in exam coursework
Sir Ian Bauckham tells MPs that he has informed the DfE of his concern about students using AI in A-level English and history coursework
7 quick wins to boost recruitment and retention
Ahead of the School Teachers’ Review Body making its recommendations to the government, the NAHT’s Ian Hartwright suggests policy changes that can help to keep teachers in the profession
Thursday
8th Jan 2026
DfE wants ‘ladder of support’ for pupils with SEND
Speaking about the government’s upcoming SEND reforms, the schools minister says mainstream and special schools will need to work more closely together
Trust inspections: the full details of the proposals
The government’s amendment to its Children’s Wellbeing and Schools Bill provides a detailed overview of the plans for trust-level inspections. Ellen Peirson-Hagger looks at what you need to know