This week I highlight updated guidance on teaching online safety in schools, the results of teachers unions ballots on possible strike action and the implications of the new Strikes (Minimum Service Levels) Bill, the announcement of a new primary school careers programme, confirmation of an Energy Bills Discount Scheme that will replace the current Energy Bill Relief Scheme and plans from the Prime Minister for young people to continue to study some form of maths up to the age of 18.

DfE updates online safety guidance
The non-statutory Teaching online safety in schools guidance has been updated for the first time in almost four years. The guidance is for school leaders, teaching staff and governors to support pupils in acting responsibly and staying safe in online spaces.

Teachers unions ballots on strike action
A number of education unions have been formally balloting their members for strike action since Autumn last year. The NASUWT confirmed yesterday that it hadn’t reached the turnout threshold of 50% for strike action, despite broad support from those who did vote. The results of the NAHT and NEU’s ballot are expected on Monday.

The government has announced a new Strikes (Minimum Service Levels) Bill which will ensure that specific crucial public services such as rail and ambulance services maintain a minimum level of service during times of industrial action. The Bill also states that the government have the power to step in and enforce minimum levels of service if parties within the Education sector cannot negotiate reasonable levels of service. Teaching unions have threatened legal action if the law is passed, and the Labour Party has said it will repeal the law if it wins the next election.

Primary school careers programme announced
The DfE has announced it is to set up a new careers programme that it says “will open primary school children’s eyes to the world of future job possibilities and challenge stereotypes”. The scheme is backed by £2.6 million of funding and will be rolled out across 55 disadvantaged areas where school outcomes are the weakest.

Government announces Energy Bills Discount Scheme to replace previous scheme
On Monday, the Treasury announced that the current Energy Bill Relief Scheme, which is due to end on 31 March, will be superseded by the Energy Bills Discount Scheme from 1 April 2023 to 31 March 2024. The new scheme will be for everyone on a non-domestic contract, which includes schools.

Plans for young people to study maths up to age 18
Last week the Prime Minister outlined plans for all pupils to study “some form of maths to age 18”. No new qualifications are immediately planned and a government spokesperson said the government is exploring expanding existing qualifications as well as “more innovative options”. Mr Sunak is expected to begin working on the plan in this Parliament, with the intent to finish it after the next general election.