Greetings readers! 

Welcome to another invigorating issue of our weekly UK Education and Career Newsletter. Over the past seven days, momentous events have continued to shape Britain's academic and professional spheres. This week, delve into the latest developments ranging from advancing apprenticeship opportunities to emerging university programmes.

For discerning learners, we analyse pressing topics impacting curricula and standards across Britain's schools. Aspiring professionals can explore updates within coveted career fields. Recent graduates will discover insightful coverage around maximising employment prospects.

Our editorial team has distilled the week's most impactful news and trends to empower you with indispensable knowledge. Let us be your trusted guide, unveiling a world of possibilities.

Within these pages, glimpse your future taking form. We hope you discover inspiration to propel your academic journey and career trajectory to new heights. Thank you for joining us on this continued adventure of insight.

SCHOOLS

Concern Over Explicit WhatsApp Group

North Bromsgrove High School and Sixth Form issued a warning about a WhatsApp group called "Add People" sharing explicit images with children as young as 9. Over 200 pupils were included. Police are investigating the safeguarding issue. The school and police advised monitoring children's social media use. Concerned parents felt the school should take more responsibility.

New Special Needs School Proposed for Rayleigh

Essex County Council has launched a consultation on plans for a new special needs school in Rayleigh for ages 3-18, to be built at Wolsey Park from 2025 pending approval. The school aims to address demand in the area. MP Mark Francois and the council urged public feedback. The developer welcomed the prospect of the new school at the site.

Spike in Permanent Exclusions Among Bristol Students

Permanent school exclusions in Bristol have risen sharply, especially among ethnic minorities. Nearly 75 students were excluded this academic year, more than double the prior two years. The council plans early intervention in primary schools. Officials expressed concern over the "school-to-prison pipeline." Inexperienced leadership and recruitment challenges are blamed for the spike's negative impact.

Northern Ireland Schools Face Funding Crisis

Schools in Northern Ireland are struggling with inadequate budgets, unable to provide basic necessities like first aid and soap. Teacher unions called off strikes after new funds were released, but may resume action if pay disputes remain unresolved. Officials urged prioritising education funding in the upcoming budget to address urgent sector problems.

FURTHER EDUCATION

Birmingham Considers Cutting Post-16 Transport Support

Facing a financial crisis, Birmingham City Council is reviewing non-statutory transport for college students to save over £7m, proposing increased parent fees. This could exclude vulnerable and SEND students. Recommendations for more online learning also raise concerns. The consultation has caused anxiety as the council struggles with its bankrupt status.

Anger Over Axe of Learner Destination Data Collection

The government's decision to stop collecting learner destination data in the ILR from 2024 has sparked a backlash from mayoral authorities concerned about alternative systems. The move, seen by some as simplification but criticised for lack of consultation and new funding, tracked progression into jobs, apprenticeships, or further study. Authorities may create their own tools in response amid calls to review ditching the longstanding ILR data.

HIGHER EDUCATION

Aberdeen University Staff Strike Over Language Cuts

University of Aberdeen staff will strike for six days in March amid plans to cut modern language jobs. The union reported an 80% vote for action after the university refused to rule out redundancies and failed to provide financial information. A petition against the cuts gained over 17,000 signatures. The university expressed disappointment and sought a resolution.

Investigation into Leeds Trinity University's Subcontracting

The Office for Students has launched its first-ever investigation into a university's subcontracting arrangements, scrutinising Leeds Trinity University's partnerships with colleges and private providers. This inquiry aims to assess course quality, governance, and compliance amid concerns. The university stated its commitment to transparency and compliance. The probe follows a report citing fraud in franchising.

SKILLS & TRAINING

T Level Awarding Body Takes £2.5m Hit from Low Recruitment

Major T Level awarding organisation NCFE wrote off over £2.5m due to under-recruitment, as its latest accounts show an "impairment charge" deficit. The charity does not expect the same surplus from the new demand-sensitive, risk-laden contracts. Surveys found 11 out of 18 college T Level subjects under-recruited, especially digital, health and construction. DfE acknowledged enrolment variations and recruitment challenges.

Apprenticeship Starts Decline After Funding Change

Apprenticeship starts dropped 12% in November 2023 vs 2022, attributed to fast-tracked 54% funding increases for English and maths. The change, affecting only new starters, impacted young apprentices most, with a 20?crease among 16–18-year-olds. Despite higher level growth, the overall increase this academic year has been reduced.

Addressing Skills Gap in Lancashire's Textile Sector

The "Licence to Sew" programme in Lancashire trains machinists to meet textile manufacturing needs and provide job opportunities. Utilising shared prosperity funding, it collaborates with The Sewing Rooms to upskill locals, support businesses, and create skilled jobs in West Lancashire. The initiative addresses pressing skills gaps to cultivate a workforce supporting manufacturing firms.

CAREER

Four-Day Week Trial in UK Hailed as Major Success

The UK's largest four-day working week trial yielded overwhelmingly positive results, with 89% of companies still using the policy. Benefits included better staff well-being, lower turnover, and increased productivity. Most employees reported personal life and work performance improvements. The successful trial has spurred calls for wider adoption and public sector pilots.

Aston Martin Expands Workforce for New Sports Car Production

Luxury carmaker Aston Martin is adding 150 jobs at its Wales factory and 250 agency roles at its Midlands HQ to support building its next-generation sports cars and DBX707 SUV. The chief people officer welcomed the chance to provide more opportunities for local communities, with the potential for agency staff to become permanent.

POLITICAL OUTLOOK

Expanding Free Childcare for Working Parents

The UK government is rolling out free childcare hours for working parents based on child age, with 15 hours for under-twos and 30 hours for three to four-year-olds, to encourage employment. Eligibility requires approved work hours and income. Applications open before each term; costs may remain for extras.

Delay in Doubling England's Medical Student Training

The government has significantly postponed plans to double doctor training places in England by 2031, funding just 350 more for 2025-26 versus expected annual increases. This disappoints universities and medical schools, especially in under-doctored regions, raising concerns about meeting workforce needs and addressing inequalities. Critics say delays cost more in agency fees and waiting times.

EVENTS

Inspiring Young Futures: The London Careers Festival

The London Careers Festival, organised by the City of London Corporation, aims to guide over 30,000 youth aged 16-24 into employment through apprenticeships, advice, and practical workshops. To be held from February 26th to March 8th at the Guildhall headquarters and virtual platforms, sessions will focus on “fusion” skills like communication, creativity, and resilience that firms seek. Alongside 22 major sector companies offering vital exposure, tailored content for those with special needs or under social care highlights the festival’s commitment to inclusive career development.

HALL OF FAME THIS WEEK

Student Overcomes Adversity to Graduate

Despite losing both parents to cancer at a young age, Mollie Chapman recently graduated from the University of Bristol. Her courage and determination in pursuing her education, inspired by her late mother, earned praise from university leadership. She plans to teach English.

To read our Previous Issue of Learning Edge,UK

 Learning Edge UK - Issue 1