NFER: Exploring the special schools workforce – What’s the current picture?
The National Foundation for Educational Research (NFER) has published the first in a two-part research series, funded by the Nuffield Foundation, that looks at special schools in England. The research looks at the workforce in state-funded special schools, teacher vacancy rates and data about teachers with qualified teacher status (QTS). The research finds that, on average, state-funded special […]
FM & MAINTENANCE MONTH: 3 steps to future-proofing your campus
As the demands on educational institutions continue to evolve, facilities management (FM) and maintenance strategies are becoming increasingly sophisticated. Today, schools, colleges, and universities face new challenges, including aging infrastructure, sustainability goals, energy efficiency, and the need for smart campus solutions. To ensure learning environments remain safe, efficient, and adaptable, education estates managers are embracing innovative FM practices and leveraging the […]
Rebuilding Schools: Time to think again about the value of fire protection
By Thomas Roche, Secretary of Business Sprinkler Alliance In October, the government announced its continued commitment to the future of education, unveiling plans to rebuild another 114 schools across the country1. This investment presents an invaluable opportunity to ensure that our school buildings are not just fit for purpose but resilient for decades to come. But […]
CREATING SPACE MONTH: The growing role of modular and flexible learning spaces
Modular and flexible learning spaces are becoming essential in both schools and higher education, offering versatile, adaptable environments that support a range of teaching styles and student activities. Senior facilities and estates management professionals and their suppliers attending the Education Forum and Education Technology Forum are leading the charge in redesigning learning spaces to be more dynamic, efficient, and future-proof. Here’s […]
Public funding ‘critical’ for university-business collaboration in England
Analysis from Research England highlights the vital role of the Higher Education Innovation Fund (HEIF) in fostering knowledge exchange (KE) between universities and businesses in England. The findings showcase HEIF’s impact in supporting early-stage innovation, upskilling SMEs, and shaping policy, with case studies and data revealing its role in attracting investment, bridging skills gaps, and improving access […]
Smartphone bans in schools not helping with pupil wellbeing – Study
Students attending schools that ban the use of phones throughout the school day aren’t necessarily experiencing better mental health and wellbeing. In a study published in Lancet Regional Health Europe, 1227 students from 30 schools across England provided data about smartphone and social media usage and a range of mental health, wellbeing and other outcomes. Among […]
The next Facilities Management Forum takes place in June – Register today!
January’s first Facilities Management Forum of the year was completely over-subscribed – But you can now secure your funded place for June, when we go to Manchester! The Facilities Management Forum isn’t like a traditional trade show – it brings together facilities professionals with leading industry suppliers, for 1-2-1 business meetings to build valuable connections, see what’s new in […]
March 2025 is FM & Maintenance Month on Education Briefing – Here’s how to get involved!
Each month on Education Briefing we’re shining the spotlight on a different part of the education procurement market – and in March we’re focusing on FM & Maintenance. It’s all part of our ‘Recommended’ editorial feature, designed to help education buyers find the best products and services available today. So, if you’re a specialist in […]
OPINION: What government plans for a digital revolution in schools means for teachers
By Guy Thornton, Founder of Practice Aptitude Tests Schools across the country will experience a digital revolution, thanks to new plans to modernise the education sector. The Department for Education has revealed plans for a digital revolution in schools in an effort to modernise the education system. The plan is backed by a 2022-2023 Technology in Schools Survey which revealed that two thirds of pupil attainment […]
Is outdoor play the key to children’s health?
Safe outdoor spaces for children to play, such as public parks and playgrounds, provide the opportunity for children to exercise, push themselves, socialise and test their physical capabilities. These are all skills which have been proven to lower characteristics of anxiety and depression, as well as helping to develop advanced motor skills and keep children at […]