Education Blog

The Schools in England Blog

Expert guides, exam tips and practical advice from experienced educators. Everything parents and students need to navigate England's school system.

56 Articles
5 Topics
3 Expert Authors
A secondary school pastoral leader in England speaking with a group of teenagers about the risks of vaping in a school classroom Education Trends
Vaping in Schools: How English Secondary Schools Are Tackling the Issue
Vaping among secondary school pupils in England is a growing concern. We explain the health risks, what the law says, how schools are responding and what parents can do.
ER
Emmett Richardson
7 min
A Year 11 student in British school uniform sitting a mock exam in a school sports hall in England, rows of desks, clock on the wall Exams & Qualifications
Mock Exams: Why They Are More Important Than Ever in 2026
Mock exams are no longer just a rehearsal — in 2026 they influence predicted grades, sixth-form offers and mental health. Here's how to make the most of them.
IC
Imogen Clarke
7 min
Three different English school buildings side by side representing a local authority school, an academy, and a free school in England English Education System
State Schools vs. Academies vs. Free Schools: What's the Difference?
Confused by England's school types? We explain the real differences between local authority schools, academies, and free schools — funding, admissions, curriculum and more.
CW
Christopher Walton
8 min
Aerial view of a prestigious English boarding school with historic buildings and green grounds SEND & Alternative Education
Boarding Schools in England: A Guide for Domestic and International Families
Everything you need to know about boarding schools in England — types, fees, state vs independent, admissions, and advice for international families considering boarding education.
CW
Christopher Walton
11 min
Family planning school term dates and holidays on a calendar at home Practical Advice
School Term Dates 2026–2027: Planning Your Family Holidays
Full England school term dates for 2026-2027: autumn, spring and summer terms, half-term weeks, bank holidays and expert tips for planning family holidays.
CW
Christopher Walton
12 min
A school counsellor providing mental health support to a student in a welcoming school office Education Trends
Mental Health Support in Schools: The Role of Mental Health Leads
Learn how English schools support student mental health in 2026 — from Mental Health Leads and CAMHS referrals to peer support programmes and what parents can do.
ER
Emmett Richardson
9 min
Year 9 student reviewing GCSE subject options booklet at a school desk Exams & Qualifications
How to Choose GCSE Options: Tips for Year 9 Students
Choosing your GCSEs in Year 9? Discover expert tips on picking the right subjects, understanding the EBacc, and planning for your future career or A-Levels.
IC
Imogen Clarke
9 min
Side-by-side image of a student writing a pen-and-paper exam and a student using a tablet in a modern British examination hall Education Trends
The Future of Exams: Is the UK Moving Away From Traditional Tests?
Is England moving away from pen-and-paper exams? We examine the case for digital assessment, the Ofqual review, and what changes parents and students can expect by 2030.
CW
Christopher Walton
8 min
A parent and child learning together at a bright home study area with books, a globe, and educational posters in a cosy English home SEND & Alternative Education
Elective Home Education: The Legal Requirements for Homeschooling in England
Thinking about homeschooling your child in England? This guide covers the legal requirements, your responsibilities as a parent, de-registration, and what Ofsted cannot do.
ER
Emmett Richardson
9 min
A primary school child doing homework at a kitchen table surrounded by colourful books and pencils in a cosy British home Practical Advice
Homework Expectations: How Much Is Too Much for Primary Pupils?
How much homework should primary school children really be doing? We examine government guidance, the research evidence, and practical tips for parents.
IC
Imogen Clarke
7 min
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