Should happiness be the point? New research has revived the debate over whether entertainment or passing exams is the real purpose of education.
Pupils ‘stop enjoying school by Year 7’
Playing Truant: Children have missed school at an increased rate since the pandemic, which is also believed to have reduced parental support for full-time schooling. Permanent exclusions have also surged, as has home-schooling. Glossary
Free school meals - The government is facing widespread criticism and possible legal action for refusing to extend the food voucher scheme into the summer holidays.