SEND Tech Triumph and Inspection Shake-Up

Saturday, 3 October 2026 — From eye-tracking GCSE success to Ofsted’s fresh start

Top Stories

SEND

Boy with cerebral palsy passes GCSEs using eye-tracking tech ↗

Patrick McCabe’s achievement shines a light on how assistive technology can help SEND learners overcome huge barriers. It’s inspiring but also a reminder that the system still struggles to meet all SEND needs effectively.

Source: The Guardian
Policy

Ofsted inspections overhaul after heavy teacher complaints ↗

The education secretary has sent Ofsted back to the drawing board following widespread criticism of the new inspection system. This signals the importance of getting inspections right and listening to those on the ground.

Source: The Guardian
SEND

Neurodivergent support should focus on needs, not diagnosis ↗

A new report urges tailored employment support for neurodivergent people rather than relying strictly on diagnostic labels. This has big implications for schools and colleges designing inclusive support.

Source: FE News
Leadership

Pakistan’s first female train driver pursues university career in UK ↗

Breaking traditional barriers, this student’s journey highlights the role of education in expanding opportunities and inspiring change beyond national borders.

Source: FE News
Al's Take
Patrick McCabe’s GCSE success with eye-tracking tech is a brilliant example of how technology can truly open doors for SEND learners. But it also highlights the system’s limits and the need for schools to keep pushing for tailored support. Meanwhile, the government’s decision to rethink Ofsted inspections shows that frontline feedback still drives change. Both stories remind us that real progress needs listening, adapting, and practical tools.

Number of the Day

37%
Percentage of first-year university students showing moderate-to-severe anxiety or depression, underlining the urgent need for better mental health support in higher education. (FE News)

Jobs Spotlight

Assistant Headteacher SENDCo ↗
Hays Education · Birmingham
Interim School Leadership West ↗
Hays Education · Midlands
Primary School Leadership ↗
Hays Education · Norfolk
Lunchtime Play & Engagement Leader
Ark Blacklands Primary Academy · Hastings, South East · £24,795

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Worth a Read

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

by Dr Matthew Hill

This quick dive into AI and learning is packed with insights that schools need as AI chatbots become part of pupils’ daily lives. It’s practical and timely for any school thinking about AI strategy.

Coming Up

World of Learning Birmingham 2026 ↗ — 6-7 Oct 2026, United Kingdom
MATPN Inclusion 2026 ↗ — 7 Oct 2026, United Kingdom
MATPN Workforce 2026 ↗ — 15 Oct 2026, United Kingdom

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