Geldards highlights key legal and Government guidance updates that education leaders need to know this month. The growing impact of Artificial Intelligence means schools must become more “tech savvy” to manage risks and misuse. 

The Department for Education has also released the 2025 update to Keeping Children Safe in Education, requiring schools to review safeguarding policies, alongside revised RSHE guidance to be implemented by September 2026. Additionally, the Employment Rights Bill will bring phased reforms affecting staff, while proposed changes to the SEND system could reshape provision in England. Geldards provides insights to help schools prepare for these developments.

First Give believes that young people have the capacity to create meaningful social change, yet their voices are too often overlooked. When students are given the opportunity to explore issues that matter to them and take purposeful action, they not only support their communities but also develop empathy, confidence, and leadership skills. 

For schools and trusts, the challenge is to make space for social action to become a natural part of everyday learning, rather than an occasional project. Embedding this into the culture of education could help shape a generation ready to lead with values, vision, and purpose.

For many Year 11 students, deciding where to study post-16 is daunting. Course details, entry requirements, and open day information are often scattered across websites or hidden in prospectuses, making comparisons difficult. This lack of clarity doesn’t just frustrate students; it also affects schools and colleges, who risk losing potential applicants when the process feels overwhelming. 

By simplifying how students discover and apply for courses, schools can widen access, improve engagement, and ultimately boost admissions. Applicaa provides the tools to make this journey clearer and more accessible, delivering benefits for both students and institutions alike.

In today’s fast-moving digital workplace, organisations face the challenge of balancing reliable technology with growing demands for flexibility and efficiency. From ensuring smooth day-to-day operations to safeguarding data and supporting hybrid teams, IT is now central to how every sector works. Many businesses are exploring solutions that combine hardware, managed services, and bespoke support to help them thrive in this environment. Office XPress has seen first-hand how tailored approaches to technology can make a measurable difference, enabling schools, public services, and companies of all sizes to stay connected, adapt quickly, and focus on their core priorities.

Schools Mutual provides the lowest-cost staff absence protection, supporting school budgets, staff and pupil wellbeing. Surpluses return to schools, with wellbeing benefits like counselling, physiotherapy, and a 24-hour GP helpline included.

MATNetworks, South East hosted by Catherine Stalham, CEO South Essex Academy Trust will be running their second event in Essex on 5th February 2026. Book your ticket here.

MATNetworks, The West Midlands hosted by Carla Whelan, CEO Empower Multi Academy Trust will be running their third event in Shrewsbury on 23rd April 2026. Book your ticket here.

Delegate tickets are complimentary. If you'd like to come along or know of anyone who would benefit from joining their regions local networking events feel free to forward details. All welcome!