THE SCHOOLS BLOG

Expert Advice for Parents

Practical guides, policy explainers, and honest advice from experienced teachers, education writers, and SEND advocates.

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SENLatest

Navigating the SEND Code of Practice: A Parent's Guide to Your Child's Rights

The SEND Code of Practice is a 292-page document that governs how schools support children with special educational needs. Here's what you actually need to know.

Rebecca Barnes·22 February 2026· 10 min read

Wellbeing 9 min

Mental Health Support in Schools: What's Available and How to Access It

One in six children now has a probable mental health condition. Here's what schools are doing to help, what support is available, and how parents can access it for their child.

Victoria Clarke20 Feb

Admissions 8 min

How to Appeal a School Admissions Decision: A Step-by-Step Guide

Didn't get your preferred school? You have the legal right to appeal. Here's exactly how the process works, how to prepare your case, and what to expect at the hearing.

Laura Patel18 Feb

School Life 7 min

School Uniform: Your Rights and Where to Get Help with Costs

School uniform costs average £337 per year per child. Here's what schools can and can't require, your legal rights, and where to find financial support.

Emma Richardson15 Feb

School Life 8 min

The Transition from Primary to Secondary School: Helping Your Child Thrive

Moving from primary to secondary is one of the biggest changes in a child's life. Here's how to prepare them — practically and emotionally — for a successful transition.

Fiona Douglas12 Feb

Academic 8 min

Supporting Your Child Through SATs: What Parents Can Actually Do

KS2 SATs can feel like a big deal for children and families alike. Here's a practical, no-pressure guide to helping your child prepare without turning your home into a exam factory.

Hannah Lewis10 Feb

Financial Support 7 min

What Is Pupil Premium and How Does It Help Your Child's School?

Pupil premium brings millions of pounds into schools each year, but many parents don't know what it is or how it benefits their children. Here's a clear explanation of this vital funding stream.

Sarah Mitchell8 Feb

Wellbeing 9 min

What to Do If Your Child Is Being Bullied at School

Bullying affects one in five children in the UK. Here's practical advice on spotting the signs, talking to your child, working with the school, and what to do if things don't improve.

Victoria Clarke5 Feb

Academic 8 min

Home Learning: How to Support Your Child's Education Without the Battles

You don't need to be a teacher to support your child's learning at home. Here are practical, evidence-based strategies that make a real difference — and some things that don't help at all.

Hannah Lewis3 Feb

SEN 11 min

What Is an EHCP and How Do I Apply for One?

An Education, Health and Care Plan can transform your child's school experience. This guide explains what an EHCP is, who qualifies, how to apply, and what to do if your request is refused.

Rebecca Barnes1 Feb

Admissions 9 min

The School Admissions Process Explained: Key Dates, Rules & Tips

From understanding oversubscription criteria to navigating waiting lists and appeals, here's everything you need to know about school admissions in England.

Laura Patel29 Jan

Ofsted 8 min

What Happens During an Ofsted Inspection? A Behind-the-Scenes Guide

Ofsted inspections affect every school in England, but most parents have little idea what actually happens. Here's a detailed look at the inspection process and what it means for your child's school.

Charlotte Hughes28 Jan

Academic 10 min

How to Read and Understand a School's Performance Data

Progress scores, value-added, attainment — school performance data can feel overwhelming. Here's a plain-English guide to understanding the numbers and what they actually tell you.

Catherine Whitmore25 Jan

Ofsted 10 min

Understanding the New Ofsted Report Cards: What Parents Need to Know

Ofsted has replaced its single-word headline grades with detailed report cards. Here's how the new system works, what the different areas of assessment mean, and how to read your child's school's report card.

Charlotte Hughes22 Jan

School Life 7 min

Understanding School Attendance and Why It Matters So Much

Missing just one day a fortnight means your child misses 10% of their education. Here's what the attendance data shows, what schools expect, and how to improve attendance.

Charlotte Hughes20 Jan

Admissions 7 min

Understanding School Catchment Areas: Everything You Need to Know

Catchment areas are one of the most important factors in school admissions. Here's how they work, how to find yours, and what to do if you live outside the catchment of your preferred school.

Sophie Wheeler18 Jan

Financial Support 8 min

Does My Child Qualify for Free School Meals? A Complete Guide for Parents

Free school meals can save families over £400 per year per child. Here's everything you need to know about eligibility, how to apply, and the additional benefits your child's school receives through pupil premium funding.

Sarah Mitchell15 Jan

SEN 9 min

Supporting Children with Dyslexia at Home and School

Around 10% of children in the UK have dyslexia. Here's what it looks like, how it's identified, what support should be available at school, and practical strategies for home.

Rebecca Barnes12 Jan

Admissions 12 min

How to Choose the Right Primary School: A Step-by-Step Guide

Choosing your child's first school is one of the most important decisions you'll make as a parent. This guide walks you through everything from understanding admission criteria to visiting schools and making your application.

Emma Richardson8 Jan

School Life 8 min

Understanding Academy Trusts and What They Mean for Your Child's School

More than 80% of secondary schools in England are now academies. But what does that actually mean for parents and pupils? Here's a clear guide to how academy trusts work.

Sophie Wheeler5 Jan