Rethinking Education Models Today

Monday, 7 September 2026 — From university finance to SEND surges, big questions for schools

Top Stories

Policy

UK Universities Under Pressure: Time for a Rethink? ↗

Financial woes in UK higher education are pushing us to question if the traditional university model still fits today’s needs. This is a big deal for leaders planning the future of post-16 provision.

Source: FE News
SEND

SEND Applications Set to Double in England ↗

Demand for SEND support is surging, with numbers likely to double to one in ten pupils. Schools and councils are worried about funding and capacity. This surge calls for smarter inclusion strategies on the ground.

Source: The Guardian - Education
Pedagogy

Hands-On Learning Is Maths’ Secret Weapon ↗

The Concrete-Representational-Abstract framework is making waves as the best way to teach maths. It’s proof that practical, hands-on approaches still trump fancy tech when it comes to understanding.

Source: SchoolNews New Zealand
Leadership

Schools Face Cuts to Library Services, Threatening Literacy ↗

Proposed cuts to library engagement staff risk weakening literacy support for schools. It’s a reminder that vital services around reading and resources need defending, not cutting.

Source: SchoolNews New Zealand
Al's Take
The education sector is at a crossroads again. Whether it’s the university model facing financial strain or the sharp rise in SEND plans, the message is clear: we need fresh thinking and practical solutions now. For those leading schools, it means adapting fast and focusing resources where they matter most.

Number of the Day

631
The number of education news items published this week, showing how fast the sector is moving and the wealth of information school leaders need to keep up with. (Platform stats)

Jobs Spotlight

Resident Principal
LEARN Charter School Network · UK
Head of Faculty: English Language, Literature and Literacy ↗
Ysgol Treffynnon · Holywell, Flintshire · MPS/UPS + TLR 2C £6950
Head of School ↗
The Rise School · Feltham, Greater London · AaAST Scale point 28-32 (£99,862-£109,739)
Assistant Headteacher ↗
Cardiff West Community High · Ely, Cardiff · Leadership Scale 13-17 (£72,262 to £78,500)

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Worth a Read

DfE guidance on AI in schools: a practical checklist ↗

by Structural Learning

AI is everywhere now in schools. This checklist strips away the noise and gives you straightforward steps to manage AI safely and effectively in your classroom.

Coming Up

researchED Cape Town 2026 ↗ — 12 Sep 2026, South Africa
Learning Impact Europe 2026 ↗ — 15-17 Sep 2026, Europe
researchED Cork 2026 ↗ — 19 Sep 2026, Ireland

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← 6 September 2026
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