Education reform always sounds hopeful on paper. The harder question is what happens on Monday morning, when schools are already managing stretched budgets, staff workload, attendance concerns, SEND pressures and rising expectations from every direction. The latest proposals discussed by the Education Secretary at the CST Conference raise some important possibilities. Giving oracy the same status as reading and writing. Creating new vocational GCSEs and clearer practical path

Taking a child out of school can feel strangely simple and deeply confusing at the same time. The law gives parents in England a clear right to educate a child otherwise than at school, but it does not give a neat weekly timetable, a list of required subjects, or a standard report template. That is where many families get stuck. Do you need to set a certain amount of work each day? Can learning happen through projects, trips, reading, conversation, and practical skills? Do yo

“I can’t do it” can sound like refusal. It can sound like laziness, avoidance, stubbornness, or drama. Very often, it is none of those things. For many children, especially those who have struggled for a long time, “I can’t do it” is not a tactic. It is a belief. They have met the same kind of failure so many times that they now expect it before they even begin. The worksheet lands on the table, the maths book opens, the spelling list appears, and their brain has already deci

A child can look as if they have “forgotten” maths when the real problem is that the idea has never become visible enough. That is why many primary schools now teach maths with objects, drawings and symbols together. Children do not jump straight to written sums because written sums can hide what is happening. Before a child can confidently solve `34 + 28`, they need to understand what 34 is, what 28 is, why regrouping works, and why the answer is reasonable. At home, parents

A Year 11 student can revise algebra, trigonometry, and simultaneous equations, yet still hesitate over fractions, times tables, negative numbers, or estimating an answer. That can feel confusing for parents. If a child is old enough to sit GCSE maths, surely the basics should be secure by now. For many students, they are not. This does not mean the student is lazy, careless, or “bad at maths”. Basic maths weaknesses usually build quietly over time. A missed topic in Year 6,

Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) Support in the UK: Trends Shaping the Future Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) support in the UK is evolving rapidly. As we approach the 2026-2027 school year, understanding the current trends shaping this landscape is essential for educators, parents, policymakers, and professionals involved in SEND provision. This article explores the key developments that will influence SEND services, highlighting practical

What Is an EHCP? An Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP) is a legal document in England. It outlines the education, health, and social care support a child or young person with special educational needs (SEN) requires. This plan replaces the older system of Statements of SEN and Learning Difficulty Assessments (LDAs). The EHCP is designed to cover children and young people from birth up to 25 years old. It is for those who have more complex needs that cannot be met through

The recent headline claiming that each SEND child in mainstream schools will receive an increase to the £6,000 per child budget sounds promising at first glance. It suggests more funding and better support for children with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND). Yet, this headline can be misleading. The reality behind the funding changes is more complex and requires a closer look to understand what it means for schools, SEND children, and Education, Health and Car

How Inclusive Is the Schools White Paper? When a new education White Paper is published, one question always comes to mind: How inclusive is it really? As someone who has worked as a teaching assistant, teacher, SENCO and now supports families, schools and young people through CARES Tutoring and Consultancy, I read these documents through one lens: What will this mean for children and young people with SEND? Inclusion is more than a word Most education policies talk positivel

When it comes to education, understanding how well a student is grasping the material is crucial. Assessments play a key role in this process. They help identify strengths, weaknesses, and areas that need improvement. Without effective assessments, it is difficult to tailor teaching methods or provide the right support to learners. This is especially important for young people and those with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND), where personalised approaches can

What Does SEND Cover? SEND refers to children and young people who have learning difficulties or disabilities that make it harder for them to learn than most children of the same age. This includes a wide range of needs, such as: Cognitive and learning difficulties like dyslexia or developmental delays Physical disabilities affecting mobility or coordination Sensory impairments such as hearing or vision loss Emotional, social, and mental health needs Understanding this bro

Understanding difficulties with numbers can be challenging. Many young people struggle with maths, and sometimes this struggle is due to a condition called dyscalculia. Identifying dyscalculia early can make a big difference in how support is provided. One useful tool for this is the online dyscalculia screener. In this post, I will explain what this screener is, how it works, and why it matters. What Is Dyscalculia? Dyscalculia is a specific learning difficulty that affects

Dyslexia is a common learning difficulty that affects the way people read, write, and spell. It is not linked to intelligence but can make learning challenging without the right support. Early identification of dyslexia is crucial to help young people overcome these challenges and reach their full potential. One of the most effective tools for early identification is a dyslexia screener. In this post, I will explain why a dyslexia screener is important, how it works, and what

Choosing the right type of tuition for your child can feel overwhelming. Parents want to support their child’s learning but often wonder whether one-to-one tuition or group sessions will be more effective. Each option has its strengths and challenges, and the best choice depends on your child’s personality, learning style, and academic needs. This post will help you understand the differences between one-to-one and group tuition, so you can make an informed decision that bene

Mathematics can sometimes feel like a mountain too steep to climb. Many students struggle to keep up, and parents and schools often seek better ways to support learning. Over recent years, the mastery approach in maths has gained attention as a method that helps learners build a deep, lasting understanding of mathematical concepts. I want to share what I have discovered about this approach, why it works, and how it can be applied effectively. What Is the Mastery Approach in M

Preparing for Year 6 SATs can be a challenging time for both students and parents. The pressure to perform well often leads to stress and anxiety, which can affect a child's confidence and overall performance. One effective way to support children during this crucial period is through group sessions. These sessions offer a range of benefits that can make SATs preparation more engaging, effective, and enjoyable. Year 6 students collaborating in a group session How Group Sessio

When a child says “I can’t do this,” it might not mean they lack ability. Instead, it often signals: Fear of failure Children may worry about making mistakes or disappointing adults. Saying “I can’t” protects them from trying and possibly failing. Feeling overwhelmed Tasks that seem simple to adults can feel huge to children, especially if they lack the skills or confidence needed. Need for attention or help Sometimes, children say “I can’t” to get support or reassur

Identifying reading difficulties early can make a significant difference in a young person's educational journey. Dyslexia, a common learning difference affecting reading and spelling, often goes unnoticed until challenges become more severe. Early detection through effective tools can help provide the right support at the right time. In this post, I will explore the importance of early identification, explain how dyslexia screeners work, and offer practical advice on using t

Applying for an Education, Health and Care Needs Assessment (EHCNA) can feel overwhelming. Many families and professionals face confusion fueled by misinformation. This post clears up common myths about EHCNA applications, helping you understand the process with confidence and clarity. A person completing an EHCNA application form carefully Myth 1: Only Parents Can Request an EHCNA A widespread belief is that only parents or guardians can ask for an EHCNA. This is not true. W

When it comes to supporting young people in their learning journey, finding the right educational services can make all the difference. In Shifnal, CARES Tutoring And Consultancy Services Shropshire offers tailored support designed to help students thrive academically. Their focus on maths and Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) ensures that every learner receives the attention and resources they need to succeed. I want to share what's on and how it can benefit