A national skills programme has boosted the number of young people from the poorest backgrounds going to university by 50%, new analysis shows. The National Citizen Service, first announced in 2010 as part of David Cameron’s Big Society initiative, received Royal Assent last week. The programme gives 15 to 17-year-olds the chance to take part in a week-long Outward-Bound style experience, before living away from home in a university halls setting for a further week. Read more
Schools and colleges struggle to provide adequate time and resource for pupils’ well-being, according to the Health and Education Committees in a joint report published this week. The Committees say an increasing number of education providers are having to cut back on mental health services, such as in-school counsellors, despite a growing prevalence of mental ill health among children and young people. Read more
With the exam season approaching and revision under way, university researchers have suggested that the smell of rosemary could enhance memory. A study found that pupils working in a room with the aroma of rosemary, in the form of an essential oil, achieved 5% to 7% better results in memory tests. Mark Moss from Northumbria University said the findings were consistent with tests on adults. Read more
Head teachers could bring in a four-and-a-half day week in schools around England as they grapple with £3bn in budget pressures. Heads at the National Association of Head Teachers conference said ministers had not been listening to their plight. They backed a motion giving their leaders licence to explore all available options – including a shorter school week – to protect education. Read more