Children’s reading enjoyment has fallen to its lowest level in 20 years, according to new data from the National Literacy Trust. In this blog, we explore what’s behind the decline, why it matters for education, and how EdTech companies and education suppliers can help re-engage young readers through innovation, relevance, and personalised support.

As the government’s VAT policy on private school fees takes effect, thousands of pupils are moving into the state sector — and more private schools may be forced to close. This blog explores the growing impact on both private and state schools, the pressure on state school capacity, potential teacher recruitment gains, and what these changes mean for EdTech companies and education suppliers.

As UK schools adapt to rising pressures, from staff wellbeing to inclusive teaching, education suppliers and EdTech companies must evolve too. This blog explores how schools are changing and what opportunities this creates for those supporting the sector.

The proposed SEND reforms could limit EHCPs to special schools, sparking concerns about access to support in mainstream settings. This blog explores the impact of these changes, and the opportunities they create for education suppliers and EdTech companies to support inclusion, early intervention, and tailored learning tools.

Ofsted’s move to detailed report cards and a five-point grading scale means schools must assess quality, behaviour, leadership, and safeguarding more precisely—and suppliers of data analytics, assessment tools, and improvement services have a fresh opportunity to support that deeper dive into school performance.

The RAAC crisis has exposed deeper issues in school infrastructure—and highlighted how the physical learning environment directly impacts student wellbeing, motivation, and outcomes. In this blog, we explore why safe, well-designed spaces matter, how reactive government policy continues to fail schools, and what opportunities this creates for education suppliers like Morleys who design and furnish modern, inclusive learning environments.

Is EdTech really to blame for excessive screen time in schools? This blog challenges recent media claims, highlighting that much educational technology supports staff, not students, and that screen use in schools is determined by teachers — not tech companies. With digital skills more important than ever, we explore why thoughtful use of EdTech can empower students and enhance learning, not hinder it.

As the myth of academy freedoms is challenged, education experts call for a smarter, trust-led system. Discover what the shift means for multi-academy trusts, and how education suppliers and EdTech companies can adapt to succeed in a trust-led future.

New research from Turnitin reveals students are more concerned than educators about AI’s impact on learning. With growing fears around misuse, critical thinking, and ethical use, this blog explores why educators must take AI more seriously—and what EdTech companies and education suppliers can do to help schools harness AI effectively and responsibly.

Many EdTech and education suppliers make costly mis-hires due to poor role planning. In this blog, we explore the most common cause of recruitment failure—and how Connecting Education’s strategic planning process helps businesses hire the right people, avoid wasted time and money, and build long-term success.

A new NFER report reveals a gap in young people’s socio-emotional skills. This blog explores how EdTech and education suppliers can help close it by embedding social and emotional learning into their tools and services.

The Procurement Act 2023 came into effect on 24 February 2025, introducing new digital procurement processes for state schools, MATs, and local authorities. Education suppliers must adapt to stricter transparency rules, digital tendering, and increased competition. Read our latest blog to understand the key changes and how EdTech providers and education businesses can stay ahead.

AI is transforming education, with 60% of UK teachers now using AI to reduce workload, improve lesson planning, and streamline admin tasks. However, 76% have received no AI training, highlighting a major gap in support. For EdTech companies and education suppliers, this shift presents huge opportunities—schools need AI-powered solutions, CPD training, and seamless integrations. Discover how AI is shaping classrooms and what businesses can do to support educators. Read more to explore the future of AI in education.

The UK EdTech job market in 2025 is evolving rapidly, with AI, data analytics, and digital learning reshaping the demand for skills. While the UK EdTech sector is expected to grow to £9.5 billion by 2028, automation and changing investment trends are transforming recruitment. Employers are seeking AI specialists, data analysts, digital content creators, and project managers to drive innovation. However, a skills shortage and regulatory challenges are creating hiring difficulties. Discover the latest trends, in-demand skills, and job opportunities in the UK’s booming EdTech industry. 🚀

Did you know that traditional playground games are on the decline in UK schools? Recent Teacher Tapp research reveals a drop in hopscotch markings, skipping ropes, and ball games since 2019, with teachers reporting that many children simply don’t know how to play these games anymore. 📉

What’s causing this shift? Shorter break times, increased screen use at home, and budget constraints on playground resources are among the key factors. But how does this impact children’s behaviour, social skills, and overall health?

Find out more in this guest post from Teacher Tapp, where we explore the latest data on playground activity trends, childhood habits, and the evolving school environment.

Discover the untold success stories in UK education! While headlines often focus on challenges like funding cuts and teacher shortages, this blog highlights inspiring developments—rising forest schools, groundbreaking mental health initiatives, Ed Sheeran’s music foundation, and more. Let’s celebrate the positivity shaping the future of education. Read on for the good news we all need!

Explore the latest trends in educational recruitment, from tackling teacher shortages and embracing flexible teaching roles to the rise of EdTech and diversity in hiring practices. Discover how schools, recruiters, and educators can adapt to an evolving landscape to meet today’s challenges and prepare for the future.

Should schools join academy trusts? With the Labour government scrapping £25,000 conversion grants, academy trusts are stepping in with ‘golden hellos’ to attract schools. This blog explores the pros and cons for schools and suppliers, from centralised purchasing to autonomy, helping you decide if trust membership is the golden opportunity you need.

Discover the hidden value of free educational resources from charities for schools. These expertly crafted, curriculum-aligned materials save teachers time, enrich learning, and support school values. Explore how they enhance professional development, foster empathy, and engage families and communities in meaningful learning experiences.

The Double Financial Hit on UK Private Schools: Could VAT and Increased NI Lead to Closures?

The recent introduction of VAT on private school fees and the hike in employer National Insurance contributions could have a significant impact on the UK’s private education sector. This “double whammy” of tax burdens may lead to higher fees, reduced enrolment, and even school closures. If private schools close, thousands of students could move to already stretched state schools, potentially impacting resources and education quality nationwide. Could this financial squeeze push the UK toward a more unified education system, or will it deepen the challenges for both private and public sectors?