Turning Confidence Into Skills Action

Thursday, 20 August 2026 — From belief to delivery in skills education

Top Stories

Policy

Skills Sector Confident but Needs to Act Now ↗

Skills providers feel good about their performance but are uncertain about policy clarity. This confidence must translate into real-world actions to improve outcomes for learners.

Source: FE News
AI

AI-Driven Phishing Is Getting Cleverer – Schools Beware ↗

Cybercriminals are using AI to craft more convincing phishing attacks. Schools and colleges need to tighten security and educate staff and students to spot these new threats.

Source: Education Review
Pedagogy

Unintended Consequences of ‘Device-Free’ Policies in Schools ↗

Banning devices in classrooms might hamper students’ ability to develop vital digital skills. Schools should rethink restrictions to balance focus with real-world tech competence.

Source: Education Review
EdTech

Microsoft Combines Copilot Apps for Smoother User Experience ↗

Microsoft is merging its AI assistant apps into one streamlined platform. This aims to reduce confusion and support better productivity in education and beyond.

Source: Campus Technology
Al's Take
The latest report shows providers are feeling confident about their own work, but less sure about policy direction. For schools and colleges, the big challenge now is turning that confidence into practical action that really boosts student skills. It’s a reminder that good intentions need solid follow-through to make a difference.

Number of the Day

4814
New education job listings added this week showing the ongoing demand for talent across the sector. (Platform stats)

Jobs Spotlight

Headteacher ↗
Knowle Park Primary School · Bristol · L21 - L27*
Programme Leader UPS ↗
Northumberland College · Ashington, Northumberland · £31,375 to £40,912 per annum
Healthcare Team Leader ↗
Richard Taunton Sixth Form College · Southampton, Hampshire · £33,230 FTE, £28,565 actual
Head of Human Resources and Professional Development ↗
West Thames College · Middlesex, Greater London · £58,302

Browse all live education jobs →
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Worth a Read

Young people, learning, and generative AI: A rapid literature review ↗

by Dr Matthew Hill

A clear, practical look at how AI is affecting young learners and what it means for teaching. Always worth a read if you’re thinking about AI in your school.

Coming Up

Get Further Forum 2026 ↗ — 26th August 2026, United Kingdom
ESTA International Conference ↗ — 26-30 August 2026, Unknown
researchED Cape Town 2026 ↗ — 12 September 2026, South Africa

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