• Bad Grammar on TV: Are Our Ears Under Attack?

    If you’ve ever been halfway through your cuppa, enjoying a bit of telly, only to hear something like “She done it yesterday” or “There’s loads of people in here, isn’t they?”.  you’re not alone.  Bad grammar on UK television has become increasingly noticeable – and for some of us, it’s like nails on a chalkboard. […]

  • VAT – The beginning of the end for independent schools in the UK?

    The introduction of VAT on private school fees in the UK is a significant policy shift with potentially far-reaching consequences for independent schools, their pupils and the broader education system.  While it is unlikely to signal the outright “end” of independent schools, it does pose substantial financial and structural challenges that could reshape the sector. […]

  • Private Schools in England – a privilege of the Wealthy?

    Private schools, often referred to as independent schools, have long been a defining feature of the British education system.  Renowned for their high academic standards, excellent facilities, and prestigious alumni, these institutions continue to attract families seeking the best possible education for their children.  However, the question remains: are private schools in England only of […]

  • Has Comprehensive Education in the UK Been a Success?

    Comprehensive education was introduced in the UK during the 1960s with the aim of providing equal educational opportunities for all children, regardless of their social background or academic ability.  It replaced the system that divided pupils into grammar schools and secondary modern schools (senior and junior secondary schools in Scotland), based on their performance in […]

  • AI in education: A Blessing or a Curse?

    In the age of rapid technological advancements, artificial intelligence (AI) has found its way into classrooms across the UK.  With tools like ChatGPT, Grammarly, and QuillBot, pupils are using AI to assist with their assignments, research, and writing.  But while AI offers undeniable benefits, it also raises questions about ethics, learning, and academic integrity. The […]

  • Declining Literacy Standards in Scottish schools

    Scotland’s education system, once celebrated for its excellence, is currently grappling with a significant decline in literacy rates among school pupils.  This downturn is evident across various metrics and has profound implications for the country’s future. Recent data indicates a troubling trend: one in six Scottish children now leaves school without a National 5 qualification, […]

  • Assaults on Teachers in UK schools – a Worrying Picture

    In recent years, the issue of assaults on teachers in UK schools has become a pressing concern.  Educators, who dedicate their lives to nurturing and guiding pupils, are increasingly facing verbal and physical abuse from both pupils and, alarmingly, from parents as well. Rising Incidents of Violence A survey conducted by UNISON in November 2024 […]

  • Ukrainian Refugees in the UK: Building New Lives

    Since the onset of the Russian invasion in 2022, the UK has welcomed thousands of Ukrainian refugees under schemes such as the Homes for Ukraine programme and the Ukraine Family Scheme.  While the support has been substantial, the process of integration into UK society presents both opportunities and challenges for these newcomers. Finding Stability: Housing […]

  • How to Train to Be a Teacher of English as a Foreign Language

    Teaching English as a Foreign Language (TEFL) is a rewarding career that allows you to travel, experience new cultures and help students achieve their language goals.  Whether you want to teach abroad or online, proper training is essential to becoming an effective and confident English teacher.  This guide will walk you through the steps to […]

  • Teaching English to Immigrants in the UK: Challenges, Strategies, and Rewards

    The UK is home to a diverse population, with immigrants from all over the world bringing rich cultures, languages, and traditions.  However, one of the key challenges many immigrants face is learning English, which is crucial for daily communication, employment opportunities, and integration into society.  Teaching English to immigrants is not just about language skills; […]