In the news: your weekly round-up

Top stories

New statutory RSE and health education HE guidance published for 2026. The updated guidance for relationships and sex education and health education will become mandatory from September 2026, with a focus on safeguarding and age-appropriateness [Schools Week].

Get to grips with what you need to know about the guidance changes and next steps to take.

Schools face rising costs from suppliers. The rising price of essentials such as food, energy and software are putting increased pressure on school budgets [Tes magazine - subscription required].

Whether you're a member of the finance committee or not, know what questions to ask about different areas of the budget at whichever stage it comes to you for approval.

Faster AI adoption in private schools raises concerns of a new digital divide. Research shows that private schools, state schools in affluent areas and those graded ‘outstanding’ by Ofsted are more likely to have a whole-school strategy for AI use. [Schools Week].

Find out what artificial intelligence is, how it's used in schools and what schools and trusts need to consider to make sure it’s being used safely and responsibly.

This week's headlines

• Ofsted launches engagement programme ahead of November start to inspections [GOV.UK]

• More schools report having a budget deficit last year [Schools Week]

• The attainment gap for 5-year-olds with SEND is at its highest recorded level [Tes magazine - subscription required]

• Teach First aims to place 500 headteachers in schools in disadvantaged areas by 2030 [Schools Week]

• Schools are seeing an increase in parent complaints generated by AI [Tes magazine - subscription required]

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