AI, Attendance, and Career Moves

Sunday, 23 August 2026 — What’s shaking up schools this week

Top Stories

AI

Chinese students’ AI use boosts homework scores but harms exam results ↗

A study reveals that while AI tools help students finish homework faster and with better grades, their actual exam performance drops significantly. This highlights the risk of relying on AI for quick wins rather than deep learning.

Source: Orizzonte Scuola
Policy

Dirigente in chemotherapy forced to relocate 1,000km, sparking tough questions ↗

A newly appointed school leader undergoing cancer treatment faces a transfer far from home. It’s a stark reminder of how policy and human needs can clash, with calls for better support and flexibility.

Source: Orizzonte Scuola
Leadership

Schools brace for early secondary teacher return from 24 August ↗

Secondary teachers may be called back before term starts for exams and formal duties. It’s a useful heads-up for leaders planning staffing and schedules ahead of the new year.

Source: Orizzonte Scuola
CPD

eTwinning offers 12 places for Italian teachers in Poland seminar ↗

A great chance for beginner teachers to get international training through eTwinning. The deadline to apply is tight, so worth a look if you want to boost your CPD with a global twist.

Source: Orizzonte Scuola
Al's Take
The big picture this week is all about navigating change, whether it’s AI’s impact on learning or career shifts in school roles. The key takeaway? Technology and policy both need to work for the people on the ground, not just as headline news. Also, wellbeing and attendance keep popping up as crucial, practical concerns for every school leader.

Number of the Day

326
That’s how many education news items were published this week on the platform, showing how fast things move in our sector. (Platform stats)

Jobs Spotlight

Deputy Headteacher ↗
Martha H School · Wigan · £48,000 - £52,000 per annum
Vice Principal - North Devon College ↗
Exeter and North Devon College · Barnstaple, Devon · £110,000
Head of Curriculum and Engagement ↗
NACRO · Bolton, Greater Manchester · $41,851 per annum
Curriculum Head in Foundation Learning ↗
Loughborough College Group · Loughborough, Leicestershire · £44,912 - £48,655 per annum

Browse all live education jobs →
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Worth a Read

Young people, learning, and generative AI: A rapid literature review and implications for PreK-12 education ↗

by Dr Matthew Hill

This review cuts through the noise around AI in schools with clear insights on what works and what to watch out for. Always worth a read if you want a practical take on AI’s impact.

Coming Up

Get Further Forum 2026 ↗ — 26 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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