Just how long is the school summer holiday in the UK? It depends on which part of the UK you're in, so let's break it down region by region to help you prepare for the summer ahead.

Between planning family holidays, arranging holiday childcare, and organising family days out, getting your head around exactly how long the school summer holidays last is crucial. Having a clear sense of when schools break up for summer and how long schools are closed for the summer holidays is also key to ensuring you have the resources and energy for entertaining kids during those long summer weeks.

With August just around the corner, some children are already halfway through their summer break, while others are just starting. So, how long are the school summer holidays in the UK?

How long is the UK school summer holiday?

The amount of time that kids get off school for the summer holidays in the UK depends on where they go to school because local councils and educational authorities set the school term dates for their region. This means schools in England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland run to different calendars.

Broadly speaking, school summer holidays in the UK last for between six and eight weeks, depending on the region in which the school is based, as well as what type of school it is. The specific dates vary greatly.

England

In England, the school summer holidays typically last six weeks. They usually begin in the third or fourth week of July and end in the first week of September. However, exact dates can vary by region, as local education authorities set the school term dates. For instance, schools in the South of England might start their summer break slightly later than those in the North.

Wales

Welsh schools also get a six-week summer holiday, starting in the last week of July and ending in the first week of September. Exact dates can vary by region.

Scotland

Scottish schools follow a different educational system and break up earlier for summer, usually in late June. In Scotland, school holidays last around six weeks, finishing in mid-August.

Northern Ireland

In Northern Ireland, the summer holidays are longer, lasting eight weeks from early July to late August. This extended break is due to the shorter half-term breaks during the school year and the lack of a half-term break in the summer term.

School summer holidays in 2024

In 2024, most state schools in the UK will have a six-week summer holiday. 

Occasionally, the holidays can last seven weeks, as seen in 2020 due to the combination of a leap year and the tradition of the new school term starting on a Monday. The length of the summer holiday can also differ for independent schools and academies, which set their term dates.

Check your local council's website or the individual school's website, newsletter or social media accounts for the most precise term dates and holiday information. Here are some helpful links for each region of the UK:

• England
• Wales
• Scotland
• Northern Ireland

Why are school holidays so long?

There are several theories as to why school summer holidays are so long. One is that children historically took a break during the summer months to help their families with agricultural responsibilities. Others say the six-week summer holiday was made popular by educational reformer, Horace Mann, who advocated for a long summer break from school for the wellbeing of pupils and teachers. Another possibility is that long school holidays were originally established in hot countries to give staff and students respite from the heat.

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You might also be interested to find out about back to school traditions or what these parents are looking forward to about their kids going back to school. We've got a back to school shopping guide too and even a round-up of the best back to school jokes.

The former Conservative government announced plans to replace A-levels with a new qualification called the Advanced British Standard but the Labour party, which took power in July 2024, has decided to retain the A-level system. Here's everything we know about the U-turn.

Hundreds of thousands of 18-year-olds in England, Wales and Northern Ireland are awaiting their A-level grades ahead of Results Day this Thursday. In 2024, achieving the right combination of grades is still crucial for securing a university place. It might surprise you to learn that A-levels have now been a key part of the education system for 73 years — and despite recent proposals to replace them, they are likely here to stay.

Last year, former Conservative Prime Minister Rishi Sunak proposed replacing A-levels with a new qualification called the “Advanced British Standard” over the next decade. His vision, unveiled at the last Tory conference, involved sixth-formers studying five subjects instead of the current three. These would be divided into US-style 'majors' and 'minors,' with students required to continue studying maths and English until they finished school, rather than dropping them after GCSEs.

However, when Labour took power in July, the newly appointed Chancellor, Rachel Reeves, announced in the Commons that there was no funding for such a sweeping overhaul of the A-level system. As a result, A-levels appear to be staying, especially since the system has only recently returned to normal after the pandemic.

So, what can parents of students heading to sixth form expect in the coming years?

While the previous government focused on adding rigour to A-levels, Labour has indicated a shift towards better-preparing students for the workforce. They plan to continue supporting T Levels, the vocational alternative to A-levels. These qualifications allow students to specialise in a single subject, such as Legal, Finance and Accounting, or Catering and Hospitality. Like A-levels, T Levels are two-year courses offered in schools and colleges, but they also include 45-day industry placements. Students can use these qualifications to apply for university. Currently, there are 20 T Level subjects, with plans to expand this to 24.

Another significant change is on the horizon for the university application process. The personal statement, a 4,000-character essay that sixth formers use to 'sell themselves' to prospective universities, is being reformed. Until now, students have had to write this essay in a large empty box on their UCAS form, but research shows that 83 per cent found this stressful, with disadvantaged students particularly affected. These students were often more intimidated by the task, less likely to receive help from schools, and had fewer extracurricular activities to include.

From 2026, the UCAS application will include a more structured format with the following questions:

• Why do you want to study this course or subject?
• How have your qualifications and studies prepared you for this course or subject?
• What additional experiences have you had outside of education, and how have they helped you?

According to Helena Gillespie, Associate Pro Vice-Chancellor for Student Inclusion at the University of East Anglia, who works to broaden access to university for students, this is good news. “Young people from less privileged backgrounds may not get the same support in writing their statement or be able to detail the same extensive extracurricular achievements as their wealthier peers," she says. "The change is intended to make the application process fairer.”

If you're the parent of a teen anxiously awaiting examination grades ahead of GCSE and A-level results days, you might like to read I’m a teen expert, and here’s why I refused to pay my teenagers for getting 'good' exam grades or 8 places teens can get freebies for A Level and GCSE results day.

The summer term has arrived, and we have the important school holiday dates you need for the remainder of the year. 

With the school summer term upon us, it's time to start thinking about the best and worst sun creams for the warmer days, or for those jetting off abroad for their summer holidays. Some parents might be looking to stock up on outdoor toys for summer, in the hopes of plenty of garden time during the long holiday. 

If the hot weather arrives in abundance, you'll want to know the top tips for how to keep your house cool in summer. For many, the summer term signals times of big change, with some pupils facing the big change of secondary school in September, and some parents seeing their young children into their first day of reception when the new school year begins.

Among the many things to remember during this time - May fair contributions and collections for teachers - having the right term dates in your diary is one less thing to worry about. With this in mind, we've shared the all-important back-to-school dates to note down, and upcoming school holiday term dates for the start of the academic year.

When is the May half-term?

The next school holiday is summer half term, which in England, Wales and and Northern Ireland, falls on Monday 27th May - Friday 31st May.

With the latest updates on school fines, parents should make themselves aware of the potential repercussions of taking children out of school outside of the holidays. The Government will be cracking down with increased fines and new legislation could see an upturn in parents being prosecuted or sent to prison for unauthorised absences.  

Term dates can also vary from school to school, so it's advised to check dates with your local council just to be safe. You can do this by putting your postcode into the gov.uk website, or if you live in Scotland you will need to visit mygov.scot. Those in Northern Ireland can find term dates via the Department of Education website.

School term dates 2024

Term dates in England:

• Summer Half-term: Monday 27th May - Friday 31st May
• Summer holiday: Tuesday 23rd July - Friday 1st September
• Autumn Half-term: Monday 28th October - Friday 1st November 
• Christmas holiday: Monday 23rd December - Friday January 3rd, 2025 

Check individual school term dates in England here.

Term dates in Wales:

• Summer Half-term: Monday 27th May - Friday 31st May
• Summer holiday: Tuesday 23rd July - Friday 1st September
• Autumn Half-term: Monday 28th October - Friday 1st November 
• Christmas holiday: Monday 23rd December - Friday January 3rd, 2025 

Check individual school term dates in Wales here.

Term dates in Scotland:

• Summer holiday: Friday June 28th - Friday August 12th
• October Half-term: Monday 14th October - Friday 25th October
• Christmas holidays: Monday 23rd December - Friday January 3rd, 2025

Check individual school term dates in Scotland here.

Term dates in Northern Ireland:

• Summer Half-term: Monday 27th May - Friday 31st May
• Summer holiday: Tuesday 23rd July
• Autumn Half-term: Monday 28th October - Friday 1st November 
• Christmas holiday: Monday 23rd December - Friday January 3rd, 2025 

Check individual school term dates in Northern Ireland here.

How long is the summer break in the UK?

State schools in the UK typically take a six-week summer holiday, and this is the case in 2024 too. 

In the past, the summer holidays have on occasion been seven weeks long. This was most recently the case in 2020 when the fact that it was a leap year and the tradition of starting the new term on a Monday meant pupils had an extra week off. 

Continue reading...

You might also be interested to find out about back to school traditions or what these parents are looking forward to about their kids going back to school. We've got a back to school shopping guide too and even a round-up of the best back to school jokes.

If your teenager didn’t achieve the grades they were hoping for on A-level Results Day —or if they’ve changed their mind about what or where they want to study—here’s your ultimate guide including information on what time Clearing opens and how to appeal A-level results.

It’s hard to know what to expect on A-level results day, and for those who didn’t get the results they were hoping for, it can seem like the end of the world. But there are plenty of options available for those who have just missed out on a place at their first choice university.

They might hope to achieve better grades by doing A-level retakes or appealing their A-level results, but your child can still get into university with the grades they’ve been given if they apply through Clearing.

First things first: it will help everyone if you and your teen approach A-level Results Day with an open mind. "Results Day is just the beginning,” says Ruki Heritage, Director of Student Experience at the University of Bedfordshire. “It’s normal to feel overwhelmed, but with the right preparation and support, you can navigate this important time successfully. Remind your child that there are many routes to success. It’s all about exploring options and finding the best path forward. The most important thing is to stay positive and keep moving forward."

How to appeal A-level results in 2024

• Stage 1: Request that the school or college conduct a review to find out if there have been any administrative errors. If an error is found, then the centre must contact the exam board and as a result, the grade may go up, down or it could stay the same.
• Stage 2: If the centre conducts a review and they don't find any administrative issues, then the student can appeal to the exam board. The centre does this on behalf of the student.
• Stage 3: If you think your appeal wasn’t handled properly by the exam board, you have the option of requesting a review from the exam watchdog. This can again be done through your school or college and the request must be made within 21 days of receiving the appeal outcome.

You might have to pay a fee if you ask for a review and your grade isn’t changed, and remember that grades can also go down (and not just up) as a result of a review.

When does UCAS start on Results Day?

Students can log into their UCAS account from 8am to check their status. They will also receive an email from UCAS at 8am confirming their application status.

UCAS support lines will open at this time as well.

However, as UCAS handles admissions for over 750,000 students each year, the system can be slow. Advise your teen to be patient with the website and to keep trying if they experience issues logging in.

But as UCAS takes all the A-level grades across the country and updates the Track website, the system is always busy with anxious students waiting to know if they’ve got into their chosen university. So it’s important to be patient with the website and if you can’t get in, take a deep breath, make a fresh cuppa, and keep trying.

What happens if you don't get the grades for your first choice university?

If you haven’t been accepted into your firm or insurance choice university, and you don't want to appeal your results or resit exams, then you might have to go through Clearing.

Always call the admissions office for the university of your choice to make sure first, as you might be able to change course or make other arrangements and still gain a place.

Chris Rea, a student careers expert for Prospects.ac.uk—the UK's largest student and graduate careers platform—agrees that if a student has narrowly missed the grades, they should contact the university directly to see if there’s any flexibility.

“If they’ve missed the grade by just a few marks, it’s worth talking to the university. While places are competitive, the university may be more accommodating if you’re planning to appeal any grades.”

What is Clearing?

Clearing is how universities and colleges fill remaining places on their courses. This year, there will be around 30,000 courses available, according to UCAS, the organisation that oversees the process.

Clearing often has a bit of a bad reputation, but it’s important to remember that missing out on their first choice doesn’t mean the end of the road—far from it. In fact, it’s an opportunity for a fresh start.

Many teachers and education experts believe it’s time to see Clearing as an opportunity for students to take more control over their choices.

If your child hasn’t achieved the necessary grades, Clearing offers a straightforward way to explore the range of courses still available at other universities or in related fields.

Students who have exceeded their predicted grades can also use Clearing to apply to more competitive universities.

Clearing FAQs

How to apply to university through Clearing

If you didn’t get your place at university confirmed on UCAS Track, there will automatically be an option to ‘Add clearing choice’ on your Track screen. This will also give you your Clearing number, which you will need when you phone universities.

Phone the admissions office at your chosen Clearing university yourself, as soon as possible. On the phone call, they may ask some questions as they read through your UCAS applications you already submitted. They may ask some questions or even ask you to do a formal interview. Then if they ask you to apply, this means that they are offering you a place.

How to add your Clearing choice to UCAS

Head back over to UCAS Track and enter the university and course details under ‘Add Clearing choice’. This means you are making a formal offer to take the place.

Can you go through Clearing before Results Day?

Yes, you can go through Clearing before results day. Although Clearing - the process of matching university applicants with institutions that still have places - is famously used on results day for those who haven’t got confirmation from their first or second choice universities, it actually starts in July.

Clearing is used by many students who either applied to university after the UCAS deadline or missed out on securing any offers initially. However, there are limited places available in Clearing before results day.

Can you go through Clearing if you have an offer?

If you got an offer from your first or second choice university, you can still go through Clearing. But you do have to get in contact with the university to inform them that you’re rejecting your place and going through the Clearing process.

While this might sound unusual to some, many students enter Clearing voluntarily. Especially if they think they’ve made the wrong choice of university or if they’ve got higher A-levels than anticipated and want to go to a different university.

What time does Clearing open on Results Day?

If your teen wants to enter Clearing on Results Day, they will have a few hours after receiving their results before Clearing officially opens at 1pm.

Your child can only enter Clearing if they didn’t receive any offers (or any they want to accept) or if they’ve decided to decline their firm offer and pressed the ‘decline my place’ button in their application.

Encourage them to use the time between 8am and 1pm wisely.

They’ll need to research alternative universities and courses before making any calls. They should be prepared to convince the person on the other end that they are genuinely committed and interested in securing a place.

It’s important that they handle this process themselves. If they feel daunted, remind them that the people they’ll be speaking to are there to help.

Help them stay calm by reminding them there are many places available and that university is not the only path to success.

If their grades suggest they’re not quite ready, they could consider options like foundation years at the same institution, which would prepare them for their chosen course.

Remind them that there are many routes to the same destination. For example, if they didn’t get into a business studies degree, they could consider marketing or accounting instead.

These days, there are also other options, such as apprenticeships and BTECs, which provide specific career training.

What will you need for Clearing?

To ensure everything goes smoothly, it will help if your teen has the following at their fingertips:

• Their UCAS Personal ID number
• Their Clearing number
• Their grades/UCAS Tariff points
• A fully charged phone with good signal and a computer
• Pen and paper to list the universities they want to contact and to jot down any new course codes
• Some bullet points and ideas about what to tell universities about themselves

It may feel like a rush on the day, and it’s true that the most in-demand courses will go quickly.

But in reality, it doesn’t all have to be decided on the day.

Students can apply to courses through Clearing until 21 October this year, as long as places are available and they don’t have offers from elsewhere.

Re-marks or re-takes?

What happens if your teen didn’t get the grades they were hoping for but is still determined to secure a university place?

Ask for a Remark

If your teen just missed a grade that prevents them from going to their first-choice university, they might consider asking for a remark.

To do this, they’ll need to contact their school or college and discuss it with their teachers.

They can obtain more information on the mark and see a copy of the paper, so you can decide together whether it’s worth requesting a full remark.

Bear in mind that this can be expensive, as many schools won’t cover the cost.

For example, the AQA board charges £57.85 per paper for priority marking if your teen needs it to secure a university place—though the fee will be refunded if the grade changes.

And as A-level exams can involve three or more papers, the costs can add up.

Both the exam board and a second examiner will review the paper to ensure it was marked correctly and that all marks were counted.

Bear in mind too that if your child does receive a new grade, it could be higher or lower than the original, and they’ll have to accept the lower grade if that’s the outcome.

They could also receive a higher mark that still doesn’t change the overall grade.

Deciding to Retake

If your teen is still set on a specific course or university but didn’t get the grades, they may want to consider reapplying the following year and retaking their exams.

If your teen feels they have supportive teachers, it will help to discuss with them how this can be managed.

If their current school doesn’t offer this, your child may need to attend a different college—either a sixth form college or a private institution. They could also retake their exams online.

However, be aware that there will be tuition costs involved, and you may also need to cover the cost of the exams themselves, which can be substantial.

James Kidd, Principal of DLD College London, says: "If there are no suitable options for what your child is looking for in Clearing, retakes are a viable option. It may feel tough to redo another year of A-levels, but if the only way to get on a specific course is to improve grades, it’s one year of extra study to achieve their goal."

For more exam results content, check out our parent's guide to what to expect on A-level results day or for some light relief, find out the shocking amount parents spend on exam results gifts.

As GCSE Results Day 2024 approaches, students across the country are gearing up to receive their grades and make important decisions about their next steps.

After you’ve opened your results and decided what’s next, you might be wondering when you’ll receive your official GCSE certificates.

GCSE results day presented a lot of uncertainty last year, as teacher strikes disrupted learning and A Level results day saw thousands fewer students in England awarded top grades, following the return to pre-pandemic grading. This year, students and parents might feel more anxious than ever about GCSE outcomes. Questions may arise, from understanding the grading system to planning for potential retakes. But if you’re specifically wondering about when you’ll receive your GCSE certificates, we’ve got all the answers. Read on to find out how long you might have to wait to receive them and what to do if you don't have a copy of your certificates. 

When are GCSE certificates issued?

GCSE certificates are typically sent to schools two to three months after results day, usually arriving by November. Most schools will post them to you, though some may require you to collect them in person. It’s important to obtain your certificates as soon as possible since you may need them for future job applications or further education. Remember, replacing lost certificates can be costly, so keep them safe. If you notice any errors, inform your exams officer immediately, as corrections are only free within the first three months after issuance.

How long do you have to collect your GCSE certificates?

Your school will inform you whether your GCSE certificates will be posted out or if you’ll need to collect them in person. If collection is required, don’t delay—schools typically hold onto certificates for up to a year before either returning them to the exam board or destroying them. If you’re unable to collect them within this timeframe, contact your school promptly to arrange an alternative method for receiving your certificates.

What if I don't have a copy of my GCSE certificates?

If you never received your GCSE certificates, the first step is to contact your school. If you’ve lost them, you’ll need to request a replacement from your exam board's website.

While you can’t obtain a new certificate, the exam board can issue a 'certified statement of results.' This document contains the same information as your original certificate and can be used in its place for things like university applications.

To obtain a certified statement, you’ll need to provide personal details to confirm your identity and pay a fee of at least £40. The process can take several weeks, so it’s advisable to apply early, especially if you have upcoming deadlines.

To find out more about getting a replacement exam certificate and contacting the relevant exam boards, visit the gov.uk web page.

How are GCSEs graded in 2024?

In 2024, the GCSE grading system remains aligned with the post-pandemic return to pre-COVID standards. Last year, the exams regulator Ofqual continued to offer some protections for students affected by disruptions, including the COVID-19 pandemic.

Grade boundaries are determined annually by senior examiners and may vary year by year, but there is no limit on the number of students who can achieve a particular grade.

The 9 to 1 grading scale introduced in 2017 remains in effect for all GCSE subjects in England, with 9 representing the highest possible grade and 1 the lowest. Here’s a quick breakdown of the grading scale:

Grade boundaries change each year and are recommended by experienced senior examiners - and there is no cap on the number of students that can get a particular grade.

Understanding the grading system

The 9 to 1 grading scale introduced in 2017 remains in effect for all GCSE subjects in England, with 9 representing the highest possible grade and 1 the lowest.

Phasing in over the years, from 2019 the grading system was used on almost all of the subjects on the curriculum, including languages and sciences.

The new system is not being used in Wales, while Northern Ireland uses a mixture of the two systems. 

Here’s a quick breakdown of the grading scale:

• 9 = High A* grade
• 8 = Lower A* or high A
• 7 = Lower A grade
• 6 = High B grade
• 5 = Lower B or high C
• 4 = Lower C grade
• 3 = D or high E
• 2 = Lower E or high F
• 1 = Lower F or G
• U = Remains the same

What's next after receiving your GCSE results?

With five or more GCSEs at grade 4 or above, you’ll be eligible for Further Education. Many sixth forms and colleges require at least four grades at this level, though some may accept students with lower grades.

If your results weren’t what you hoped for, you can resit your GCSEs at your school, college, or exam centre. If your resit results in a higher grade, you can request a new GCSE certificate from the exam board.

In related news, we've revealed when kids go back to school after the summer holidays.

Teens are under a lot of pressure to obtain good A-level results and get onto the best university course possible. So to help you navigate the big day, here’s what to expect on.

A-level results day is finally here. But it isn't just a big day for teens who sat the exams. It will feel like a big day for you too after all the moral support - and revision snacks - you’ve lovingly supplied. From helping teens cope with exam disappointment and making the most of places teens can get free treats to celebrate to getting your head around Clearing and considering A-level re-takes, there is a lot to consider on results day. And despite our best intentions, it’s not easy to know how to do or say the right thing.

Indeed, research by The Student Room and Bradford University found that a third of sixth formers said their parents made them feel WORSE on results day and added to their stress levels. And it’s not easy for parents either. Another survey by Birmingham City University found that mums and dads rank seeing a child go through their exams alongside the stress of moving house, changing jobs or separating from a partner. So what can you expect on the day, and what’s the best way to support your teen – and yourself – on such a stressful day of the year?

What to expect on A-level results day

It’s up to your child whether they want to get their results online or in person, as schools and colleges will offer both.

Many schools release both A-level results first thing in the morning from their online portals – or open their doors so students can get their results in person. Check with your child how they want to do this.

If they are going in person, do they want you to take them? Do they want you to wait in the car or go in with them? If they do, don’t crowd them. Teens will be especially sensitive to how this looks to their peers.

A-level results certificates

Your teen's certificate will be sent to the school around four months after results day. Make sure you collect it or have it posted to you as soon as possible. You will need it to show to any future employers and universities. If you notice any mistakes you must inform your exams officer as soon as possible as changes are only free in the first three months of issue.

Finding out about university places

For many students, it’s not the A-level grades they will find out first, but whether they have been accepted by their first choice of university.

UCAS – the agency which organises university entrance for students - will email them with their new status at around 8 am and update their UCAS Track page too.

If they haven’t got any offers or have decided to reject the offer they do have, UCAS will open up Clearing at 1 pm to offer more choices.

If your child feels strongly that they want a remark – or to retake their A Level and try again – the first step is to speak to their subject teachers on the day if possible, to talk this through.

Teachers will have more access to information about the marks they got and are the best placed to advise how close they were to this year’s grade boundaries and help them work out if it’s worth it.

Dos and Don'ts for A-level results day

What to do - from What's My Teenager Thinking? Practical Child Psychology for Modern Parents by Tanith Carey

• DO ASK THEM…. if they want you there when they open or pick up their results. Even if you’ve been there every step of the way - offering snacks, support or even paying for tutoring - respect their decision if they say no.
• DO PLAN YOUR RELAXATION TECHNIQUES...  If you know you will be stressed, think about what calming and distraction techniques you could use. Emotions are contagious. Could you use deep breathing or listen to music? Being calm and regulated will help ground and regulate your teen too.   
• DO OFFER PERSPECTIVE... A-level Results Day is often built up as the be-all-and-all of a child’s school life. Remind them are many different ways to get to where they want to go. “Many students will be under the impression that not getting the results they were hoping for means they can’t follow the career path they had in mind," says Gareth Greenwood, Education Learning and Development Manager at the online training provider, High Speed Training. “But it’s important to rationalise these thoughts. It may be that their chosen university will still accept students who speak to them directly, whether on their preferred course or a similar course that they can later transfer from."
• DO THINK ABOUT PLAN B... It will help to know the options your child has if they don’t get the grades they were hoping for. Research them in the days leading up to results so you are well placed to guide them.  Check out the UCAS Clearing Guide. Plus many universities offer online seminars before Results Day. Ask if they’d like to help with the research. "They cannot change their results once the exams are over," says Danielle D'Onofrio, University Counsellor at ACS International Schools Egham. "What they CAN control is the steps they take next. Have all necessary information about alternative options to hand, and this way, they will feel more prepared to handle any outcome."
• DO LISTEN... If your child is disappointed with their results, it will be painful as a parent to hear. But don’t try to ‘fix’ their feelings or tell them they are overreacting.  Listen, give hugs and let them get out how they feel. Let them know when they are ready, you are there to support them to explore all their options.
• DO SHOW SUPPORT... Most of all your child fears judgement and disapproval from you. Spell it out clearly that they have not let you down. Make it clear that your pride and love for them is not dependent on their results or how they make you look.

... And what not to do

• DON’T TAKE IT PERSONALLY: It’s a stressful day for your child. With the best will in the world, you are likely to say or do the wrong thing. Remember that if they snap at you, it’s because you are the safest outlet for their upset, and they trust you to love them anyway.
• DON’T TELL EVERYONE ELSE THEIR RESULT: You may be bursting with pride. But ask your teen first if it’s ok to share their results with relatives or on social media.
• DON’T COMPARE: There’s no one like your child. Every teen has different strengths and not all are reflected in grades. Harriet Finlayson, Specialist Mental Health Nurse at Bupa says: "It’s natural that your child will start comparing themselves to their classmates or siblings if their results aren’t as good as they expected. However, it’s important to note that doing so can make them feel worse. Instead, try to remind them of their achievements which may sit outside of academia."
• DON'T SAY ‘I told you so': There may have been moments when you wanted to scream because your teen seemed to be spending more time on social media than revising. If they are disappointed with their grades, this is not the time to say I told you so. They will feel disappointed enough in themselves. Let this be a learning experience.
• DON’T PANIC: You don’t have to get everything sorted out immediately and often it helps to give your child time to let their feelings settle so they can see the bigger picture. Although they may be racing for some top courses on the day, you have a few weeks before things fall into place. Education expert Gareth Greenwood says: “If your child doesn’t get the results they need, take time to let feelings and emotions die down so that you’re both able to see the bigger picture. There’s no immediate rush to make a decision, regardless of the outcome you’ve been faced with. It may even be worth reconsidering whether university is the right option for them, or whether they would be better off seeking a different form of qualification or entering the world of work. Your child’s educational support system will already provide a network of people available to consult with on what the next step should be. These people are trained and knowledgeable in this specific field so it’s really important to utilise them. Trained careers advisors can also help your child by providing a personalised plan of action based on the career path they have in mind. There isn’t one linear process that every student needs to follow. By reminding yourself and your child of this, you open up a much wider variety of possibilities for them to explore.”

Options after AS levels

Retakes: For linear A-level courses AS levels do not contribute to your A-level grade therefore re-taking may not be worth it. AS levels can count towards your university entry and UCAS points - but only if you don't have an A-level in the subject.

Rethink their A-level choices: If your son or daughter has done particularly badly in one subject, they should consider whether it's worth carrying on with that topic. Lots of students take on more AS levels than they plan on finishing at A2 level so that they can assess which ones they like best or perform better in.

Rethink their options: Some students do decide it would be best to not continue with their A-levels at all - meaning they could get a job, do an apprenticeship or take a different type of course. Read on for more information on options after A level.

If your teen has just had their A2 results, then here comes the exciting bit. They will need to check whether they have earned enough UCAS points to get them into their first choice of uni (you can see how to do this below). If they didn't quite get what they were expecting then they may be accepted by one of their back-up choices.

If your teen is really disappointed with their results and didn't get into any of their chosen universities, then they have the choice of going through clearing. Read on for their options.

Options after A-levels

Like GCSEs, there are many other options available if your teen didn't get the grades they needed or expected. Apparently, only 45% of predicted grades are accurate, so your son or daughter is not alone!

The first thing to remember is that you have plenty of options depending on how A-Level results day went. Try not to worry if things didn’t quite go the way you had planned.

You might suggest applying for a different course through clearing, resitting A-levels to try and achieve a better grade, or taking a gap year to pursue other opportunities.

If your teen hasn't got what they expected, it's not the end of the world - and could even work out for the best, as 22-year-old Emma Maguire found out after she got her A-level results.

"I was really upset when I didn't get the grades I wanted for uni. At first I didn't want to go through clearing but I picked up The Times newspaper the same day as I got my results and there were lots of places. I ended up with a place on a Law degree and came out of it with a 2:1! I couldn't have been happier," says Emma.

"I'm now going to do the extra training I need to become a solicitor. I'm really happy I ended up at the uni I went to as I made loads of great friends, joined the netball team and had loads of fun too! It's certainly not the end of the world if you don't get what you want - Clearing is a great way to find places, so my advice is - go for it!"

How to calculate UCAS points from your A-level results

UCAS points are what universities use to assess whether an applicant has got the right grades. All qualifications are equivalent to a certain number of points and each course requires a specific amount of points to get a place.

To find out how many points your teen has got, visit the UCAS website.

It can all seem a bit overwhelming, but help is at hand from the careers advisers from the Exam Results Helpline, who will be able to provide valuable information and advice to students (and their parents) across the UK who receive unexpected A-level results (whether higher or lower) and those who don't know what to do next.

The helpline can be reached on 0808 100 8000. (Calls are free from landlines. Mobile network charges vary). Information can also be found on the National Career Service website.

What are A levels and AS levels?

• They are the qualifications that usually follow GCSEs at colleges and sixth form colleges. They're typically taken between the ages of 16 - 18, but can be taken at any age.
• Universities require most applicants to have A-levels or equivalent qualifications (such as a BTEC or GNVQ)
• Some employers look for applicants who are qualified to at least this level.
• A-level courses generally take two years to complete. Students can usually take between three and five A-levels but it may vary between schools.

What's the difference between AS levels and A-levels?

A-levels are split into two units and each unit is looked at separately through a mix of internal assessment and exams:

• AS units - these are studied in the first year of your two-year A-level course. Most subjects have two AS units although some can have more. AS-levels are qualifications in their own right but they do not contribute to your overall A-level grade.
• A2 units are studied in the second year of the course. Most A-levels have two A2 units but again some subjects have three.
• AS and A-levels are assessed at the end of the course and are no longer divided into separate modules.

From what is the future of A-levels to everything you need to know about AS and A-levels, we've got lots of expert advice and information on the topic of exams. Or for some light relief, find out the shocking amount parents spend on exam result gifts and get the skinny on the top five tips to support your teen on results day, according to an expert.

When do kids break up from school for the summer? As we head into the final weeks before the long break, we have the key dates you need to know about.

It might feel like they've only just gone back to school after May half term, but the weeks are flying by and it'll soon be time to say hello to the long six-week break. You'll soon be searching for fun things to do with kids to keep them entertained, although it could be a relief to hear that your child being bored could actually be the best thing for them.

Whatever you have planned, from juggling work to packing for an exciting holiday, planning local day trips or heading off to Eurocamp, you'll need to work around those all-important school holiday dates - so here's when you can expect your school summer break to start in the UK.

When do kids break up from school? Summer holiday dates

• England and Wales: Thursday, July 25 to Monday, September 2, 2024.
• Scotland: Friday, June 28 to Wednesday, August 14, 2024.
• Northern Ireland: Monday, July 1 to Monday, September 2, 2024.  

Schoolchildren in England and Wales break up from school on Wednesday, July 24, with the summer holidays officially underway Thusday 24. The holiday lasts for 6 weeks, with kids returning to school on Monday, September 2, 2023.

Meanwhile, Scotland and Northern do things slightly differently, with Scotland breaking on June 28 for nearly seven weeks, and Northern Ireland stopping for the summer on July 3, for nine weeks. 

2024 school holidays and term dates

The following school holiday and term dates for the academic year 2023-2024 represent the majority of schools - including primary school places and secondary school places. Though it’s always advised to check these dates directly with your child’s school.

England

• Term 1: Monday 2 September to Friday 25 October 2024.
• October half term: Monday 28 October to Friday 1 November 2024.
• Term 2: Monday 4 November to Friday 20 December 2024.

Check individual school term dates in England here.

Wales

• Term 1: Monday 2 September to Friday 25 October 2024.
• October half term: Monday 28 October to Friday 1 November 2024.
• Term 2: Monday 4 November to Friday 20 December 2024.

Check individual school term dates in Wales here.

Scotland

• Term 1: Thursday 16 August to Friday 11 October 2024.
• October half term: Monday 14 October to Friday 18 October 2024.
• Term 2: Monday 21 October to Friday 20 December 2024.

Check individual school term dates in Scotland here.

Northern Ireland

• Term 1: Monday 2 September to 20 December 2024.

Check individual school term dates in Northern Ireland here.

Ideas for the summer holidays 2024:

Earn some brownie points by organising a day out to one of the UK's best theme parks like Alton Towers or Thorpe Park, but make sure you know their rainy day guarantees if the weather is bad. History buffs should explore some of the best UK castles or consider a National Trust visit. Whilst animal obsessed kids will love a trip to the zoo or local aquarium.

It's always a good idea to check in with your school to see if they are running any holiday clubs too. Football clubs, art clubs and netball clubs are often available during the break. Also be sure to check out your local library and museum free virtual tours or workshops they have on especially for the school holiday.

Rainy day activities could include a trip to the bowling alley, cinema or a soft play area. Though if you'd rather stay in, than face the weather, there's plenty of great indoor activites with kids to do and you can get the children involved in the kitchen, helping with these cheap family meals. 

Families looking to take a trip further afield should swat up on our regional Family Days Out guides too...

Family Days Out:

• Family days out in the North East
• Day trips in the North West
• Family days out in the Midlands
• Days trips in Yorkshire
• Family days out in London
• 100 free things to do in London
• Family days out in the South East
• Day trips in the South West
• Family days out in Wales
• Day trips in Scotland

We've asked a registered nutritionist what to eat before an exam, so you know what the best foods for your child are when they've got tests coming up.

If your child is taking exams this year, you probably want to know how you can help them deal with exam stress as well as how to support them on A-level results day. One of the major ways you can make a difference is by helping them fuel their body to keep them energised, motivated and focussed, they can achieve the best possible marks come A level results day.

And just as a weight lifter needs a different diet from a long-distance runner, teenagers sitting exams need a different diet from other kids, to fuel all that study time. Registered nutritionist Jenna Hope tells us, "The brain utilises around 25% of our total energy intake, therefore it’s vital to fuel it adequately when studying for exams." She adds, "Ensuring a steady flow of glucose can be helpful for supporting concentration and energy levels whilst studying."

We've taken a look at which foods can best ensure your child's brain receives a constant and steady stream of energy - helping them concentrate as well as possible for as long as possible - so you can prepare the best exam diet for them.

Best 'brain foods' for studying towards exams

• Oily fish such as sardines, salmon, tuna, pilchards, herrings or mackerel, for essential fatty acids
• Shellfish, like prawns and shrimps for zinc
• All red meat and poultry for protein, iron and B vitamins
• Wholegrain cereals for B vitamins and slow-release energy
• Nuts and seeds (for example, pumpkin, sunflower and sesame seeds, brazil nuts, walnuts and peanuts) for essential oils, zinc and selenium
• Fresh fruit, salads and green vegetables for vitamins C, A and folic acid
• Liver for vitamin A, iron and B12 (not to be taken by pregnant women)
• Rosemary, sage, basil and ginger all enhance brain function

Jenna tells us, "Where possible, opt for complex carbohydrates such as sweet potatoes (with the skins on), oats (such as porridge or overnight oats), wholegrain toasts and beans and pulses (roasted chickpeas can make for a delicious snack)."

She adds, "Omega-3 is also key for enabling neurons to communicate in the brain and supporting memory consolidation. It’s recommended to consume two portions of oily fish per week or one portion of a plant source of omega-3 per day. Plant sources include flaxseed, walnuts and seaweed."

Eating walnuts has been shown to support brain health and improve concentration, as demonstrated by a 2020 study published in the scientific journal Nutrients. Meanwhile, anthocyanins - which can be found in blueberries, blackberries, cherries and beetroot - increase blood flow to the brain, which can be beneficial when studying towards exams.

You can also help your child study by limiting refined sugar. It might be tempting to offer up sweets, chocolate or energy bars to keep them going, but in reality, anything else with a high sugar content will give your child a short-term boost, followed by a sudden drop in blood sugar. The result is a roller coaster of brain function that can seriously interfere with concentration, memory and performance.

The sugars your child's brain needs should instead come mostly from unrefined starches like wholemeal bread, wholegrain cereals, oats in porridge or muesli, rice, beans, and pasta. If they aren't used to eating this type of food, they might not welcome the change - especially at such a stressful time. If they're really resistant, try to incorporate a few small changes such as changing their snacks or making sure they take a daily vitamin pill.

What to eat before an exam

Even if your child normally skips breakfast or avoids eating when they're feeling nervous, make sure they still take the time to eat something. Their brain will need the energy from food to work efficiently, and eating before an exam will ensure your child's mental focus is kept on the exam and not on their hunger.

Meals rich in starchy foods like pasta, rice, bread, cakes and biscuits trigger the release of the hormone serotonin from the brain, which is relaxing and prepares you for sleep. Therefore, these are an ideal evening meal for the night before an exam, but not great at lunchtime. High-protein foods like meat, fish, poultry, cheese and eggs stimulate the brain, so these are better to eat at lunchtime.

Nutritionist Jenna explains, "The night before you want to ensure you’re consuming a well balanced meal. Salmon, sweet potatoes and some sauteed greens would be a great source of omega-3, carbohydrates and protein to help support memory consolidation and brain cell health."

In the morning, Jenna suggests opting for a source of slow-releasing carbohydrates with protein. Porridge topped with nut butter and berries or eggs on wholegrain tast with a side of tomatoes are great options.

Can eating certain foods really improve exam performance?

In order for your child's brain to do its job efficiently, they must be eating foods that will fuel their brain with nutrients at regular intervals - at least every three hours. Don't let them go too long between meals and provide them with healthy, nutritious snacks like fruit, nuts or wholegrain cereals.

As Jenna Hope explains, "Ensuring you’re fuelling your brain with the nutrients it needs to function optimally is vital for supporting brain cell function and memory consolidation along with concentration. However, it’s important to eat a well-balanced nutritious diet regularly rather than relying on one or two nutritious meals before an exam. It’s what you do in the long-term which can really add up."

If you're worried about your teen's stress levels through exam season, check out these four expert tips for guiding them through. You could teach them these relaxation techniques for stress too.

There's a lot to learn and consider if you want to appeal a school place. But it's worth the time and effort if your child didn't get the school they originally wanted.

The wait can often feel never-ending after you've applied for your primary school or chosen your secondary school of choice. But National Offer Day has a habit of creeping up sooner than you think each year.

Whilst we can all hope for the right outcome when secondary and primary school places are announced, sometimes things just don't go to plan. However it's important to remember that all is not lost if your child doesn't get one of the three schools they selected - with options like school appeals and waiting lists worth going for.

What to do if your child doesn't get a place at your chosen school?

First of all it's important not to panic, as there are options available to you if your child didn't get into the school you all wanted. These include joining a school's waiting list and launching a school appeal if you feel your child's application was not correctly handled. 

After receiving your child's placement offer, it's crucial you accept the current school offered. Even if it's not the one you want. This means that at the very least you have a place secured for you child come September. If you reject it, you might not be offered an alternative school as the council have technically fulfilled their obligation.

Sometimes a child's application is turned down because it's a popular and oversubscribed school. But as is life - plans change and people move - so it's worth joining a waiting list to see if a place later becomes available to you.

School Waiting Lists

Every school has a waiting list of students. So we recommend you joining your chosen school's waiting list at the first possible opportunity. If it's a primary school you can do this via the primary school admissions department of your local council. Whereas secondary schools have their own admission departments, so you'll want to contact them directly to join.

It's good to know that a child can be on as many school waiting lists they please. So it makes sense to join a few nearby schools to increase your chances of getting a place.

School waiting lists also operate differently from a first come first served basis. Instead, applicants are added in order of their criteria. So be aware that you could move both down and up places on school waiting lists.

School Appeals

It can be fairly difficult to win a school appeal. However, if you think the decision wasn't right then there are still a couple of things you can do. You are entitled to a school appeal if:

• The admission arrangements have not been followed properly.
• The admission criteria applied by the school do not comply with the school admissions appeal code.
• The decision to refuse your child a place was 'not reasonable'.

If you feel your situation matches with one of these three criteriums then you should go ahead and start your appeal.

How to appeal a school place

You have at least 20 school days from when the school decision letter was sent to appeal your child's place. To appeal a school place, you'll need to write to your local authority, outlining why you believe the decision reached was wrong.

Whilst finding your local authority and the relevant contact details is easy. Knowing what to write might be a struggle. There are professional services like School Appeals Services which can do the work for you for a fee. Similarly website The School Run have drafted up template letter examples you can copy or use for inspiration:

• Primary school appeals template
• Comprehensive/Non-selective - secondary school appeals template
• Grammar schools - secondary school appeals template

After the authority has received the appeal notice, you'll be given a date for the appeal hearing at least 10 days in advance. Appeal hearings should be heard within 40 days of the appeal deadline.

"The admission authority will set a deadline for submitting information and evidence to support your appeal," adds the government website. "If you submit anything after the deadline, it might not be considered and may result in delays to your hearing."

Government advice also states that you have to appeal against each place rejection separately and can only appeal once against each rejection.

What happens at a school appeal hearing?

Three to five members of the public will form the school appeals panel and they will make the decision as to whether it was fair or not. They will be told why the school turned down your application and check that the school's admission arrangements comply with the Schools Admissions Code.

Next, you have the chance to speak and tell the panel why you're appealing and the reasons why you think your child should be accepted at the school.

After the hearing, the panel have to decide who they think has the stronger case - you or the school. You should receive the decision in writing within seven days.

The decision the panel comes to is legally binding. If you're successful, your child will get a place at that school, however if you're unsuccessful, you can still have your child's name put on the school's waiting list.

If your appeal fails you can only have the decision reversed through the courts. Though this will of course occur fees and be a lengthy process with no guarentee of success.

What to say at your appeal hearing

• Have what you want to say written down in clear points, don't rely on your memory as it could fail you if you're feeling nervous on the day.
• Explain to them why this school in particular is right for your child. Focus on these reasons to back up your arguments, rather than why other schools would be bad.
• Include any special circumstances as to why your child should attend the school, for example for logistical reasons or medical ones. Take any documents or evidence with you to prove this to the panel.

Should you complain to the school Ombudsman?

It shouldn't be your first port of call to appeal a school place. However if you appeal, are refused a second time and are still unhappy, this is the time to complain to your local Ombudsman.

Ultimately though, the decision of whether your child is accepted or not is at the discretion of the school. So while you can't complain about the decision, you can complain about the appeals process. Particularly if you think that it wasn't handled well or that they didn't follow the correct guidelines.

"If we decide we should not investigate your complaint, we will make that decision as quickly as possible (we aim to do so within four weeks)," explains the Local Government and Social Care Ombudsman website. "If we decide your complaint needs a detailed investigation, this will take some time."

"We usually have to request information from the school or council and have to give both parties the opportunity to comment on our provisional findings before issuing a final decision," they add. "This may mean we do not reach a decision before the start of the school year. You should therefore make arrangements to educate your children while you are waiting for our decision."

You can get in touch with the school Ombudsman via their contact us page or complete an online complaint form.

Video of the Week:

Turn these fun facts for kids into a learning game and challenge them to search for other amazing facts too.

Kids love to learn new things. Their curious minds are always seeking out fascinating information, whether it's riddles for kids, funny dad jokes and knock-knock jokes, or random facts, like who was Guy Fawkes? As a parent, it can be hard to keep up with their endless questions. That's why fun facts for kids are such a great way to spark conversation and turn any moment into a chance to learn together.

As Goodto.com Family Editor Stephanie Lowe says, "Getting my 5-year-old to talk about his day is tricky. So I started saying 'Today I learned...' which prompts him to share something he learned without me firing questions. But as an adult, I don't learn many kid-interesting things, so this page of fun facts is invaluable!"

Covering topics like animals, space, geography, sharks, tornadoes, and the human body, these fun facts will never leave you without something cool to share. Turn learning into a game - challenge kids to find more amazing facts. Whether you need fun things to do with kids on a rainy day or just want to satisfy curious young minds, these fun facts will capture your kids' attention.

Fun facts for kids

1. The festive tradition of the Christmas tree dates back thousands of years to the Romans and Ancient Egyptians.
2. The Queen had two birthdays a year.
3. Queen Elizabeth owned more than 30 corgis in her lifetime.
4. No word in the dictionary rhymes with the word orange.

5. Apples float on water!
6. Number four is the only one with the same amount of letters.
7. More than 480 million people have played Monopoly.
8. Tomatoes and avocados are actually fruits, not vegetables.
9. The opposite sides of the dice always add up to seven.
10. A bolt of lightning is five times hotter than the sun.

11. A jar of Nutella sells every 2.5 seconds.
12. The world's tallest man was Robert Wadlow from Michigan, America. He measured 8 feet and 2 inches (or 272cm).
13. 'Arachibutyrophobia' is the fear of getting peanut butter stuck to the roof of your mouth.
14. There are 31,557,600 seconds in a year.

Royal facts for kids

15. The first ever King of England was called Athelstan, ruling from 925-939AD.
16. Kings and Queens have two birthdays (one that is the day they're born and the other is the Trooping the Colour).
17. Queen Elizabeth II was the longest-ever reigning monarch until she died in 2022.
18. Princess Diana's wedding dress, in 1981, was decorated with over 10,000 pearls.

19. King Charles doesn't need a passport to travel abroad.
20. The Royal Family isn't allowed to give out autographs.
21. King Charles was born at 9:14pm on November 14th - we wonder if 14 is his lucky number?
22. King Charles is a qualified pilot.
23. The official dish of King Charles' coronation in 2023, is the coronation quiche.

Animal facts for kids

24. Octopuses have three hearts.
25. Bees are found everywhere in the world apart from Antarctica.
26. Caterpillars have 12 eyes!
27. Horses and cows sleep standing up.
28. There are more than 1,000 kinds of bats in the world.

29. A hippopotamus can run faster than a man.
30. A crocodile cannot stick its tongue out.
31. Most insects hatch from eggs.
32. Pigs can't look up into the sky - it's physically impossible.
33. The shark is the only fish that can blink with both eyes.
34. An ostrich's eye is bigger than its whole brain.
35. Kangaroos can't walk backward.
36. A dog's nose is like a human fingerprint - unique to its owner.

37. A dog's hearing is 10 times better than a human's.
38. Dogs can smell 100,000 times better than humans.
39. A group of frogs is called an army.
40. A pet hamster can run up to eight miles a night on a wheel.
41. Monkeys can go bald in old age, just like humans.
42. Frogs drink water through their skin.
43. Only male toads croak.
44. Owls can't move their eyeballs.
45. Octopuses have blue blood and nine brains.

46. Emperor penguins can last 27 minutes underwater and can dive as deep as 500m.
47. A prawn or shrimp's heart is in their heads.
48. Hummingbirds can fly backwards.
49. A tiger's skin is striped like its fur.
50. Most fish don't have eyelids.
51. Gorillas burp when they are happy.
52. The hippopotamus produces pink milk.
53. Slugs have four noses!

Human body facts for kids

54. As well as having unique fingerprints, we all have unique tongue prints.
55. Fingernails grow four times faster than your toenails.
56. It is impossible to lick your own elbow.
57. About 70% of an adult's body is water.
58. The human eye can distinguish about 10 million different colours.
59. Your nose and ears continue growing for your entire life.
60. You can not talk and inhale or exhale at the same time... try it!
61. Your heart is about the same size as your fist.

62. When you grow up you'll have 32 teeth.
63. Every step you take uses 200 different muscles in the body.
64. Humans share 50% of their DNA with bananas.
65. An average yawn lasts six seconds.
66. The human nose can detect and recognise three trillion different scents.
67. Australia has the most amount of reptiles in the world (over 750 different species!)

Cat facts for kids

68. Cats are believed to be the only mammals who don’t taste sweetness.
69. Cats can jump up to six times their length.
70. Cats have 230 bones, while humans only have 206.
71. Cats use their long tails to balance themselves when they’re jumping or walking along narrow ledges.
72. Despite popular belief, many cats are actually lactose intolerant.
73. When a cat makes a question-mark-shaped tail it's asking, “Want to play?”
74. Cats have a unique “vocabulary” with their owner — each cat has a different set of vocalizations, purrs and behaviours.
75. Cats mark you as their territory when they rub their faces and bodies against you, as they have scent glands in those areas

Geography facts for kids

76. There may have been four different Ice Ages, where the world was completely covered in ice, not just one.
77. The world's heaviest carrot grown by Christopher Qualley in the USA weighed 10.7kg (or 22.44 lb).
78. French fries originated in Belgium, not France.
79. 90% of Earth's population lives in the Northern Hemisphere.

80. There is a tree called the Idiot Fruit, it grows in Australia's Daintree rainforest.
81. The smallest country in the world is the Vatican City in Rome, Italy. It's only about 109 acres.
82. It took nearly 1500 years to build Stonehenge.
83. The city of Bangkok in Thailand has the longest name in the world and is actually called Krung Thep Mahanakhon Amon Rattanakosin Mahinthara Yuthaya Mahadilok Phop Noppharat Ratchathani Burirom Udomratchaniwet Mahasathan Amon Piman Awatan Sathit Sakkathattiya Witsanukam Prasit.
84. The tallest building in the world is the Burj Khalifa in Dubai, which is 828 metres tall with 163 floors.

Lion facts for kids

85. Lions are the only big cats that live in groups called prides, consisting of several related females and their young, along with a few male lions.
86. A male lion's majestic mane helps protect its neck during fights and also acts as a visual signal of strength to other lions.
87. Lions are skilled hunters and can run up to 50 miles per hour (80 kilometres per hour) in short bursts while chasing prey.
88. Lionesses, the female lions, do most of the hunting for the pride and work together to take down large animals like zebras and wildebeests.
89. Lions have a special adaptation called retractable claws that allow them to extend their sharp claws for hunting and retract them when walking.
90. Male lions can weigh up to 550 pounds (250 kilograms), while females are generally smaller, weighing around 350 pounds (160 kilograms).
91. Lions have excellent night vision, which helps them hunt in low-light conditions and gives them an advantage over their prey.
92. A lion's roar can be heard from as far as five miles (eight kilometers) away, making it one of the loudest roars in the animal kingdom.
93. Lions are known to be very social animals, often seen grooming each other or napping together in the shade.
94. Female lions are responsible for raising the cubs, teaching them how to hunt, and protecting them from predators.
95. Lions are powerful carnivores, meaning they primarily eat meat, and their diet consists mainly of large herbivores.
96. Cubs start learning to hunt when they are around one year old but typically stay with their pride until they are about two or three years old.
97. Lions are found in parts of Africa and a small population in the Gir Forest of India. They once roamed across much of Europe, Asia, and Africa.
98. A lion's roar can help establish and defend its territory, warning other lions to stay away.
99. Lions have been symbols of power and strength in many cultures throughout history and are often referred to as the "King of the Jungle" or "King of the Beasts."

Football facts for kids

100. The longest goal ever scored was from over 82 metres away by Asamoah Gyan of Sunderland in 2013. 
101. The fastest goal in World Cup history was scored by Hakan Sukur of Turkey after just 10.8 seconds in 2002.
102. Footballs were once made from pig bladders and cow stomach linings. 
103. The youngest football player to play in a World Cup was Norman Whiteside of Northern Ireland in 1982 at age 17.
104. The heaviest football weighed almost 10 kilos and was used in the early 1900s before lighter materials were created. 
105. Brazilian legend Pele claims he scored over 1,200 goals in his career, though not all were officially recorded.
106. The world's oldest football player was an Egyptian called Ezzeldin Bahader who played at age 75 in 2020. 
107. It would take over 2 million footballs to fill up an entire World Cup stadium.
108. The England v Scotland football match in 1872 was the world's first international match.

Shark facts for kids

109. The largest shark is the whale shark which can grow up to 60 feet long.
110. Sharks continue to grow new teeth throughout their lives - some produce over 20,000 teeth.
111. Great white sharks can detect one drop of blood in 25 gallons of water.
112. Shark embryos  eat their littermates in the womb - the biggest pup emerges!
113. Spiny dogfish sharks can live up to 100 years, one of the longest lived vertebrates. 
114. Angelsharks can flatten themselves to blend in with the ocean floor and ambush prey.
115. Tiger sharks have such strong jaws they can crunch through sea turtle shells! 
116. Hammerhead sharks use their unique head shape to pin ray and stingray prey.
117. Some sharks like great whites can raise their body temperature to gain speed and strength.
118. The cookie cutter shark bites perfectly round chunks of flesh from its victims!
119. Greenland sharks have the longest lifespan of all sharks at 400 years.
120. Bull sharks can survive in freshwater and have been found over 4000 miles up the Amazon! 
121. Megalodon sharks were the largest fish ever at up to 60 feet long with 7 inch teeth! 
122. Sharks use the electrical signals from their prey's muscles to detect them.

Space facts for kids

123. Mars is named after the Roman god of war because of its red colour.
124. A year on Mars is 687 days long compared to Earth's 365 days.
125. Mars has the largest volcanoes and canyons in the entire solar system.
126. The tallest mountain in the solar system, at over 15 miles high, is on Mars.
127. Mars has two tiny moons called Phobos and Deimos.
128. NASA's Curiosity Rover takes selfies on Mars using a camera on its robotic arm.
129. Martian sunsets and sunrises look blue because the Martian dust in the air scatters blue light.
130. Strong winds on Mars can create huge dust tornadoes called dust devils over half a mile wide and high.

131. The average temperature on Mars is -62C, making it much colder than the coldest place on Earth.
132. Mars appears reddish-orange because the iron minerals in the soil rust from exposure to water and air. 
133. Scientists think an asteroid impact wiped out Mars' thicker atmosphere long ago.
134. Evidence shows that ancient Mars had rivers, lakes and maybe even oceans of liquid water.
135. You might think that stars are all the same, but each star is a different colour depending on its temperature.
136. There are more stars in space than there are grains of sand on a beach.
137. It would take only one hour to drive to space.
138. Water covers 70% of Earth.
139. The sun looks super close but it would take 70,000 years in our fastest spaceship to reach it.
140. It won't be possible to walk on planets like Jupiter, Neptune, Saturn or Uranus as they don't have a solid surface and are made of gases mostly.
141. The sunset on Mars appears blue.
142. The average star is between 1 and 10 billion years old (although some are even older!)

Tornado facts for kids

143. Tornadoes can have winds of up to 300 mph, making them the most violent storms on Earth!
144. The strongest tornado ever recorded was the El Reno tornado in 2013, with winds of up to 295 mph. 
145. The furthest distance anyone has ever been carried by a tornado and survived is 398 metres.
146. About 1,200 tornadoes hit the US every year, mainly in the spring and summer months. 
147. Tornadoes can appear nearly transparent until they pick up dust and debris.
148. Tornadoes' width ranges from just a few metres to over 2 miles wide! 
149. The highest winds ever measured inside a tornado were about 302 mph.
150. Waterspouts are tornadoes that form over water.
151. Some storms can produce multiple tornadoes at once, called tornado outbreaks.
152. Tornadoes typically travel between 10-20 mph but can move much faster.
153. The longest-tracking tornado travelled 219 miles across Missouri, Illinois and Indiana in 1925.
154. Tornadoes can jump and skip, touching down in multiple spots.

Left-handed facts for kids

155. Around 10% of the world's population is left-handed.
156. Left-handedness is more common in boys than girls.
157. Famous left-handed people include Leonardo da Vinci, Albert Einstein, and Barack Obama.
158. The word "sinister" originally meant "left" in Latin, which is why left-handedness was seen as a negative trait in olden times.
159. Left-handedness can run in families, so if your parents are left-handed, you're more likely to be too.
160. In some ancient cultures, left-handedness was considered a sign of uniqueness or spiritual power.
161. August 13th is International Left-Handers Day.
162. Widely regarded as one of the greatest guitarists in history, Jimi Hendrix was a left-handed guitarist who famously played a right-handed guitar upside down.
163. Left-handed people may use their brains in a special way. They sometimes share the work between both sides of their brain more evenly.
164. If you have a twin brother or sister, there's a higher chance that one of you might be left-handed.
165. The left-handed spiral of a snail's shell is referred to as "sinistral."
166. Famous sports players, like the baseball player Babe Ruth and tennis star Rafael Nadal, are left-handed.
167. The French word for left-handed is "gauche," which also means awkward.
168. Studies suggest lefties hear speech with their right ear more accurately.
169. The Ancient Greeks believed that left-handed people were extra special, and they even thought they were super lucky!
170. American swimmer Michael Phelps, who is known to be left-handed, holds the record for the most Olympic medals won by any athlete, with 28 Olympic medals, including 23 golds.
171. Famous left-handed musicians and singers include Paul McCartney, David Bowie, Kurt Cobain, Justin Bieber and Amy Winehouse.
172. Some studies show that left-handed people are more like to have allergies.
173. The term "southpaw" is often used to describe a left-handed person, especially in sports such as baseball.
174. Left-handed scissors and tools are specially designed for left-handed people to make tasks like cutting or writing more comfortable.
175. Just like people, some animals, such as cats and dogs, have a preference for using their left paws. Scientists even study this in animals, and they call it "lateralisation."
176. Left-handed people often have their own unique style of handwriting because they have to push the pen across the paper rather than pull it as right-handers do.
177. In some cultures, left-handedness was considered unlucky or associated with superstitions. For example, it was believed that using your left hand for tasks could bring bad luck.
178. Some of the world's greatest composers, such as Ludwig van Beethoven and Sergei Rachmaninoff, were left-handed.
179. Sean Wrona, a left-handed typist, set the record for the fastest typing speed on a keyboard, typing at a staggering 256 words per minute.

Explore loads more options to ignite your child's sense of curiosity and creativity, spanning from family-friendly adventures to 50 easy crafts for kids. Or consider an adventurous day trip to London to discover more amazing facts with our 100 free things to do with the family.

Parents with a child set to start school in September are wondering when you find out about primary school places for 2024, so we've shared everything there is to know.

Between last September (when local councils released the dates for when to apply for primary school places) and mid-January this year, parents and carers with a child who is due to start primary school went through the process of visiting local schools, scanning Ofsted reports and eligibility requirements, before eventually settling on three suitable choices for their child.

It's not always an easy decision, and even if there is a stand-out favourite school, you're not always guaranteed to get in - meaning some parents have to go through appealing a school place. If you're wondering what you can do about this, or you need to check when you'll know what school your child has got into, we've shared the key information.

When do you find out about primary school places for 2024?

Local councils will confirm primary school places on Tuesday April 16, 2024. You will be notified either via a letter sent to your home address or an email, which will state whether your child has been offered a place at any of the schools you applied for last year. Exactly what time the offers will be released varies from area to area.

After you receive the decision, you have two choices: either accept the given offer or appeal the decision. If you want to accept the school you've been given, details on the letter/email will outline how to do this.

It's important to complete the offer by confirming it before the deadline, otherwise your child's primary school place could be given to someone else on the waiting list. However, the deadline is some weeks away so you have plenty of time to weigh up the options.

If you want to reject the offer and go through an appeal, this is a different process.

What happens if you don’t get the school choice you wanted?

If your child is refused a place at one of the schools you applied for, you can launch an appeal against the decision. Your local council's website should explain how to do this, and it will likely also be explained on the rejection letter you receive from your preferred school.

The deadline for launching the appeal is 20 days from the date marked on the offer letter.

Although you can appeal the decision and express a preference about the school your child goes to, it's important to note that you can't pick and choose the one they attend.

The local council has to provide your child a place at another school if they don't get one at any of the schools you've applied for. This is usually the nearest school with places still available, and means that you will likely get very little choice in the decision.

If you do appeal, you will then need to submit information and evidence to support your appeal against the rejection. A panel at your appeal hearing will also hear your reasons against the rejection - and they will also be able to share with you the reasons they did not give your child a place at the school.

What if you missed the deadline for primary school applications?

If you miss the deadline for applications, your child is less likely to be offered a place at one of your chosen schools, as places will be limited.

You have to apply for a primary school place a year before your child is old enough to start school, even if you want them to start part-way through the year. Applications for 2024 opened in September 2023 and closed on January 15.

In some councils, if you have missed the deadline, you can still submit your application until the end of March, though it will be considered a late application. You will need to contact your local council to confirm their rules surrounding late applications.

You can also still apply for a school place once the school year has started. Once again, you'll have to contact your local council to find out more about in-year applications as they can tell you which schools still have places and how to apply for them.

Once your child has been offered a place at the school, they'll likely start at the beginning of the next term rather than mid-way through.

If you've got a child starting primary school in September, you might want to check out these first-day-of-school traditions and these first-day-of-school quotes. We've also asked parents for their best back-to-school buys too.

With the new academic year just around the corner, it's probably time to update the kids' school uniform. 

Before kids go back to school in September, there's always a mad rush to the shops to replace jumpers with holes in them, battered trousers and shoes that don't fit anymore. Especially if you've got more than one child who needs kitting out with all new school uniform essentials the prices can really add up.

With this in mind, we take a look at the best ranges on the high street and online to reveal who comes top of the class in school uniform for 2021. From Britain's cheapest school uniform to the best last-minute finds, we've taken into account quality, price and variety when assessing the school uniforms on sale this year so you can be sure you're also getting the most for your money.

Best school uniform for 2021:

GTK favourite 2021: Aldi school uniform

Aldi's school uniform is one of the cheapest this year, rivalling fellow-supermarket Lidl with their incredibly low school uniform prices.

To pick up a full set of the essentials, including polo shirts and trousers or a skirt, it will cost you just £4.50. The range overs most ages, going up from 3-years-old to 11-years-old.

Pick up school uniform bundles at Aldi online from July 18 and in-store from July 22nd. However due to the incredible low prices, we recommend heading into store to find the final bargains as many of the key pieces have sold out already online.

What we love: Aldi also supplies PE kits, school shoes and back to school accessories, so parents can get their entire school kits sorted in one shop. All of their items also come with that clever water-repellent shield, are tumble dryer safe, and easy iron, meaning you don't have to spend hours helping your sprogs looking picture-perfect.

Aldi’s uniform will cost you… Polos - 2 pack £1.75 Trousers - from £1.75 Sweatshirts - £1 Pleated skirt - £1.75 Pinafores - 2 pack £6.99 Ankle socks - 5 pack for £1.99

FIND OUT MORE ABOUT ALDI SCHOOL UNIFORM

Best for low prices: Lidl school uniform

Lidl are another supermarket with school uniforms at unbeatable price points. Much like Aldi, Lidl have re-launched their complete school outfit bundle for just £4.50.

The bundle, available for less that £5, includes a two pack of polo shirts, one sweatshirt and either a pair of trousers, shorts or a skirt. However you can also pick up the uniform items, which are all available for children ages 4 -12, separately. Prices are slightly increased this year from last year, but still start from just £1! So it's certainly one of the most affordable places around to get what your children need to start school next month.

Lidl are also a great option this year if you missed out on Lidl's amazing deal, as their school uniform goes on sale in-store from August 19.

What we love: Many items in the collection, such as the polo shirts, sweatshirts and cardigans, are 100% cotton so gentle on delicate skin. Lots of the pieces like the shirts and sweatshirts are also made using easy care fabric, meaning they're simple to clean, and friendly for the environment too. Items like the trousers, shorts, skirts and pinafore are also made using water-repellent technology, so the clothing won't be soaked if your little ones get caught in the rain or any spillages occur.

Lidl’s uniform will cost you… Polos - 2 pack £1.75 Shirts - 2 pack £2.49 Trousers - £1.75 Shorts - £1.75 Sweatshirt- £1 Cardigans - £3.49 Skirts - £1.75 Pinafores - £2.99 Leather school shoes - £6.99

FIND YOUR NEAREST LIDL STORE 

Best for kids who love the playground: Tesco uniform

Also pretty tough to beat on price is F&F at Tesco! This supermarket offer a nice variety of school uniform and a 100-day guarantee on most of their items. This means that if your little one wears down their uniform in just a few weeks, you can return it for an exchange. Ideal for those excited to get back in the playground again.

Tesco's polos, t-shirts, and pinafores come with a Teflon TM stain repellent. This essential addition means that their uniform is protected from any of the stains, whether that be grass, food or mud, that come with school life. Their skirts and trousers come with an adjustable waist as well, so you don't need to necessarily update their items with each passing school year as they grow either.

What we love: Tesco's prices truly are hard to beat. With prices starting from as low as £2, and going up to only £10 for a 2-pack of pinafore dresses, they're perfect for those on a budget. But that doesn't mean the quality isn't there - their uniforms are durable too.

What Tesco’s uniform will cost you… Polos - 2 pack from £2.50 Shirts - 2 pack from £3.50 Trousers - girls 2 pack woven fob trousers from £6 Jumpers - 2 pack v-neck jumpers from £6 Cardigans - 2 pack from £8 Skirts - skater skirts from £6, kilt skirts from £8 Pinafores - 2 pack £10

FIND OUT MORE ABOUT TESCO SCHOOL UNIFORM

Best for variety: Sainsbury's school uniform

Sainsbury’s offer a great variety of school clothes for very reasonable prices. They're not the cheapest but they do offer a good quality. So if you're looking to spend a bit more - but not too much more - they may be the one for you.

Firstly, we love Sainsbury's school uniform because there's a HUGE selection of colours. Pick from nine different shades in the jumper section alone. All pleats are permanent as well, which means no ironing (yay!). The colours are also wash-resistant, meaning they’ll stay brighter for longer and shoes are scuff resistant. Much like Tesco, Sainsbury's use Teflon for a super strong stain-repellent finish.

But one of the biggest perks of their uniform is the fact that they offer reinforced knees on their trousers, meaning the material won't be worn down after any falls or adventurous playing.

Whether you're shopping for young kids or older teens, Sainsbury's will certainly have something they need. The supermarket offers uniforms from the primary school to secondary school-age, so you can get everything you need in one go.

What we love: Unlike other retailers, Sainsbury's offer a range of fits for their clothes too. For example, their shirts come in 'regular', 'slim', and 'plus'. You can get their skirts in 'regular', 'plus', and 'longer'. They're ideal for a growing teen.

Sainsbury’s uniform will cost you… Polos - 3 pack from £3.50 Shirts - 3 pack from £4 Trousers - 2 pack from £6 Jumpers - 2 pack from £4 Cardigans - 2 pack from £6 Skirts - 2 pack from £6 Pinafores - 2 pack from £9

FIND OUT MORE ABOUT SAINSBURY'S SCHOOL UNIFORM

Best for quality: Marks & Spencer school uniform

Marks & Spencer have become famous for their school uniform over the years.

One of our favourite things about M&S range is that it all comes with in-built fabric technology that helps to make sure items need minimal care from parents.

M&S include grow-proof cuffs and hems in the range too, so you can unpick the threads for an extra 3cm as kids grow. Supercrease™ technology in the trousers means crease lines stay in wash after wash and blazers are ink resistant so leaky pens won’t ruin shirts. Their expert StayNew Technology also helps keep the uniform looking as good as new - ensuring no bobbles, no bagging clothing after a few months, and keeps the colour as good as it was when you bought it.

They've also made sure their uniform is non-iron with heat technology activated. So just make sure to tumble dry after washing for crease-less clothes in a flash. Plus, their shoes are scuff-resistant, so whatever the kids get up to, they'll look polished and ready for lessons afterwards.

Of all the options, Marks & Spencer are that little bit more expensive - but we reckon it's worth it for the quality.

What we love: M&S uniforms are made well with high-quality fabrics. But best of all, they're also eco-friendly, so you can feel good about purchasing from the retailer. All of their items are made from responsibly sourced cotton, meaning their clothes will reduce environmental impact and will help improve conditions for farmers who source the material.

What an M&S uniform will cost you… Polos - 3 pack from £7 Shirts - 2 pack from £9 Trousers - from £11 Jumpers - from £8 Cardigans - from £9 Skirts - from £9 Pinafores - from £10

FIND OUT MORE ABOUT M&S SCHOOL UNIFORM

Best for all ages: Morrisons school uniform

With a huge selection of uniform on offer in a wide range of colours and age ranges, Morrisons took the prize of GTK's favourite school uniform last year. While Aldi took the top spot this year, Morrisons are still offering parents great multi-packs, so you can be safe in the knowledge that you're getting your money's worth. They also have an assortment of handy tech features to keep your kids looking smart.

Morrisons’ Nutmeg range for kids is still very well-priced. But it is slightly more expensive than the likes of Aldi and Lidl. They also have a really huge range of stock available, meaning you're bound to find something you like.

The range is available for ages 3-13 and all colour items have colour stay technology, meaning the colour will maintain for up to a minimum 50 washes. Almost an entire school year! The skirts and trousers also come with an adjustable waist and hem, meaning they'll fit as your kids grow. Trousers have reinforced knees for any falls or grazes. Many items are also stain-repellent and have Teflon EcoElite tech with a renewably sourced finish.

Shirts are easy iron, so there's minimal fuss there. And we reckon kids will love the soft feel of the jumpers and sweatshirts. GoodtoKnow tested them ourselves, and agreed that they were uber-snuggly...

What we love: As well as the fantastic prices on offer from Morrisons this year, the supermarket chain are offering most of their school uniform in multi-packs, which is great for kids who love a run around in the playground.

What Morrisons’ uniform will cost you… Polos - 2 pack from £2.50 Shirts - 2 pack from £3 Jumper - 2 pack from £6 Cardigans - 2 pack from £7 Trousers - 2 pack from £8 Skirts - 2 pack from £7 Pinafores - £3 each

FIND OUT MORE ABOUT MORRISONS SCHOOL UNIFORM

Best for long-term wear: John Lewis school uniform

At the top end of the high street is John Lewis. The prices at John Lewis are higher but the uniform quality is great! They're a known and trusted brand among many parents.

The great design, fabric protection and clever finishing touches, including reinforced stitching along the seams as well as reinforced knees in trousers, mean each item is designed to last and stay in shape.

John Lewis’s uniforms are 100% cotton so it's kind on sensitive skin. All trousers, shorts and skirts have adjustable waists to cope with growth spurts and add comfort for active kids. Shirts are easy iron and John Lewis uses plant-based and renewably sourced, Teflon® EcoElite protection, so stains and spills can be cleaned up quickly and easily.

Customers have also raved about John Lewis uniforms as they are thick and durable, meaning they last for years and years. One happy shopper said of the boys trousers, "I have been buying these trouser for 6 years now for both of my sons. The quality has remained the same over these years. The trousers are long lasting, fit perfectly and have never even needed repairing!"

What we love: If you want a one-stop shop for all your school uniform needs, John Lewis is the place. As well as uniform, the store also offers a children's shoe fitting service, as well as an autism-friendly shoe-fitting service. Staff in selected shops have been trained by the National Autistic Society, to "measure your child’s feet in a comfortable environment, tailored to their needs".

John Lewis also uniforms for many specific schools from across the country, as well as selling those handy extras such as name labels, aprons for cookery class, and even Scouts and Brownies outfits!

A uniform at John Lewis will cost you… Polo shirts - 3 pack from £7 Shirts - 2 pack from £8 Trousers - from £9 Jumpers - from £8 Sweatshirts - from £6 Cardigans - 2 pack from £13 Skirts - from £9 Pinafores - from £10

FIND OUT MORE ABOUT JOHN LEWIS SCHOOL UNIFORM

Best for multi-pack offers: New Look school uniform

New Look is a high-street staple store, so it's easy to shop in person and online. While they offer a huge selection on women's and girls' clothes, a little known fact is that New Look also sells Girls' school uniforms.

They fewer multi-pack offers and their items are more expensive than some of the others on our list, however, they offer quality that you can rely on and a stylish fit that no child will complain about.

As well as basic essentials like polo shirts, trousers, pinafores and skirts, New Look also pride themselves on offering a good range of other essential Back to School items like backpacks, water bottles and lunch boxes so your child can go off to school already feeling fabulous.

What we love: Simple and stylish, New Look school uniforms are an easy go-to whether you're looking to stock up for the school year or just grab a few essential items. The store prides themselves on being fashionable, so you'll find school uniform essentials geared towards looking great as well as being practical and suitable for school. They also offer more variations on classic shirts, such as puffed sleeves.

A uniform from New Look will cost you… Shirts - 2 pack from £9.99 Trousers - from £8.99 each Jumpers - from £7.99 each Cardigans - from £8.99 Skirts - from £5.99 each Pinafores - from £12.99 each

FIND OUT MORE ABOUT NEW LOOK SCHOOL UNIFORM

Best for choice of colours: Asda uniform

George at Asda offers an amazing variety, with all sorts of items to choose from. When it comes to girls shirts for example, you can decide from 17 different options, including long sleeved and short sleeved ones, and colours including white and blue. So there will certainly be something for your little ones to choose from!

Asda's uniform also has some glowing reviews online, meaning you've got real insight on how durable the clothing is from parents who have actually used it. Of the senior girls straight leg trousers, many reviews have shared how well they fit their young ones, and how great quality they are for the price.

One wrote: 'Great quality and fit great value for money and by and hard wearing', while another said: 'My daughter had these for school. Great quality and true fit. Well worth the money.'

They also offer a wide colour selection to choose from, with the standard grey and black as well as a more unusual brown, burgundy and green.

Asda have some great technologies in their products to make life just that little bit easier. Their polo shirts have ‘Stay White’ technology to keep your whites looking gleaming, while the shirts are easy iron. Their trousers are also tapered with adjustable waists for an improved fit, and a Teflon® finish to keep stains at bay. Asda's girls skirts and pinafores have an anti-pill finish too, so they'll look smart for longer. Their school footwear is also scuff resistant, and made with Micro-Fresh® technology to prevent odours developing

What we love: George offers a 100-day 'satisfaction guarantee', so if parents aren't happy with the clothing, it can be returned within 100 days (with proof of purchase) for an exchange or a refund. A brilliant promise for parents with unruly kids!

A uniform from George at Asda will cost you… Polos - from £2.50 Shirts - 2 pack from £3 Trousers - £6 Jumpers - from £4 Cardigans - from £4 Skirts - from £5 Pinafores - from £5

FIND OUT MORE ABOUT ASDA SCHOOL UNIFORM

Best for growing kids: Matalan school uniform

Matalan's school uniform range is the perfect mix of affordable and great quality, with prices starting at just £3. They've got a huge range on offer, with lots of technical benefits for customers to enjoy. They tick all the boxes, with easy iron shirts, and 100% cotton unisex polo shirts, a much more breathable material for kids.

Like many other retailers, they've also given their clothes adjustable waists. Most are also made with Teflon and have a resistant coating to repel water and stains.

What we love: The range of choice available at Matalan is excellent, with colours and styles to cover most uniform bases.

A Matalan uniform will cost you… Polo shirts - £3 - £6 Shirts - 5 pack from £10 - £17.50 Trousers - from £5 - £9 Jumpers - from £3 Cardigans - from £4 Skirts - from £4 Pinafores - from £8

FIND OUT MORE ABOUT MATALAN SCHOOL UNIFORM

Best for brands: Next school uniform

Also at the higher end of the high street, Next!

On their own-brand clothing, Next have stain-beating Teflon and they're actually is one of the few retailers to also stock other brands, so parents can buy Clarks shoes, Nike sports gear and Adidas coats through the site as well. Parents can pick up swimming goggles, for those all important lessons too! In terms of variety, it is hard to beat. Like a couple of the other retailers, Next also offer other bits for school such as stationary, backpacks, and water bottles from children's favourite brands.

Online, Next also offer up a handy uniform builder service. This allows you to easily choose from all the bits on the website in easy-to-see categories. You'll pick trousers and shorts, shirts and polos, shoes, knitwear and jumpers, coats and jackets, sports and swimwear, dresses and playsuits, and skirts and formal shorts, ensuring you don't miss a thing you might need.

What we love: The variety of styles and colours on offer. You can get a zip-up pinafore, a button-up pinafore, a pleated pinafore and a jersey pinafore - to name but a few! Their jumpers also come in seven different colours too, as just one example. Perfect for fussy children!

A Next school uniform will cost you… Polos - 5 pack from £15 Shirts - 5 pack from £20 Trousers - from £8 Jumpers - from £8 Cardigans - from £7 Skirts - 2 pack from £12 Pinafores - from £8

FIND OUT MORE ABOUT NEXT'S SCHOOL UNIFORM

School's back in September - time to hurry to the shops!

First day of school traditions can help your kids - no matter their age - with the transition from carefree summer holidays to more structured school days.

Whether you have a first-timer - with their brand new best school shoes on and ready - or a kid who is going back to school, the enormity of change can sometimes get a bit lost during the mad rush to buy school uniforms, new stationery, and get packed lunches ready. 

We do get it, many parents are time-poor but where you can, a first-day-of-school tradition could help you in the long run, when it comes to settling your kids into school. The first day of school traditions help to mark the occasion and even help them make friends. 

The latest research from the UK’s leading soft play party venue Wacky Warehouse reveals the scale of anxiety UK parents and children feel at this time of year - with settling in (33%), making friends (30%), and new teachers (25%) the top three concerns for parents during the back-to-school season. Renowned family psychologist, Dr Linda Papadopulous tells us; "Your children want to be listened to. If they are experiencing stresses or anxieties around the back-to-school season, the first thing you need to do is hear them."

We have scoured the internet and spoken to experts and mums to help you make their first day of school extra special with these inspiring and sweet traditions.

First day of school traditions

1. Special breakfast

There's nothing worse than waking up on the first day of school, tired, grumpy and not wanting to go. Make the first morning more enjoyable by preparing an easy kids' breakfast - be that some owl pancakes, dippy eggs or a bowl of their favourite kid-friendly cereal.

2. The night-before-school ice cream

Usher in the new school year and say goodbye to summer fun with a final ice cream run.  Dionne, mum of three, and teacher tells us that this is a tradition from her husband’s side of the family. “I am obsessed with creating core memories, and my husband remembered doing this with his parents - thought it was go an choose a pick n mix from Woolworths back in the early 90s - we gave it a revamp with ice cream, the recipe of summer. Each year we have stuck with this, we go to get ice cream and talk about school. What we’re excited for or nervous about.”

3. Back to school reflections

Every year the night before starting back at school ask your child some reflective questions to think about what they learnt from last year and some goals to set themselves for the year ahead. A nice idea is to sit them down and video their responses. This makes for a lovely keepsake to look back at when they're older. You could even make this a first day of school tradition to replay them each year before making the next one.

4. Create a vision board

You could also document their back to school aspirations through a fun and easy kids craft activity: a vision board. Gather together some old magazines, photos and felt tips and have them document their dreams for the next school year. Be that winning a sports day trophy or gaining lots of new friends. Not only will this mentally prepare them and put them in a good head space to achieve, it will also get their creative juices going.

5. Back-to-school Party with school friends

Who doesn't love a party?  Back-to-school parties are a great way to ease back-to-school anxiety or tension, as well as reconnect with kids that they may have lost touch with over summer break. Renowned family psychologist, Dr Linda Papadopoulos says; “Encourage your child to socialise with their peers ahead of the back-to-school season so they’re emotionally prepared for the new term. Play is a great way to do this as it also boosts cognitive and social development.” 

6. Read a special book

To calm those jittery pre-school nerves, read your child a 'back to school' book the night before term starts. Penguin's Starting School storybook and Usborne's Going to School book both have sweet tales that will take your little one through what they can expect. We also recommend The Kissing Hand by Audrey Penn, which tells the tale of a mum who tells her son that if he feels lonely he can put his cheek to his hand and feel her kiss. Heart warming and reassuring, this will be a book you both love.

7. Back to school fairies

Inspire the kind of excitement that can only be brought around by the Tooth Fairy or Father Christmas with this ingenious way to get the kids to bed the night before their first day. Make sure they leave their windows open and in the morning they'll find a 'back to school' package filled with school essentials and a few special treats from the Back To School Fairy.

8. Back to school Schultüte

Why not try this cool German tradition? Kids receive a giant - almost as big as them - cone (schultute in German) filled with treats and sweets the night before going back to school. You could even combine it with a family movie afternoon to mark the occasion. Just don’t let them eat sweets too late, or they’ll be bouncing off the walls!

9. Stationery scavenger hunt

You've bought all the essential school stationery, so now why not make receiving it exciting? Hide the items around the house and tell your kids it's a treasure hunt. They'll race around the house determined to be the first to complete the set. New stationery always seems to be the best bit of going back to school, so when they've found it all, let them start using it straight away!

10. Record their height

A nice way to start off the school year is to measure them against a wall and make a mark of how tall they are, adding the date and their name. Repeat this every year and be amazed at how quickly they shoot up in size.

11. Decorate their door while they sleep

Make them smile and getting up that little bit easier by decorating their door with balloons and streamers whilst they sleep. When they get up in the morning it will be such a surprise they'll be sure to feel more positive about the day.

12. Mark it with a picture tradition

New year - new school photo! Keep it simple by having your little one pose in the same spot each year. Then compare with previous year shots - you'll be amazed at how much they grow and change as a person. More inspired photo traditions could include a chalkboard, showing your child's age and what career they want to do when they're older. Another favourite is to by a large t-shirt and write the date 'Class of' alongside the year they'll eventually graduate. Have them put on the shirt each year and watch how they grow into it by senior year. And don't forget these are great photos to get out again for their 18th and 21st birthdays...

13. Lunchbox love notes

If it's their first year or the start of a new one, kids can miss their parents on their first day. Leave cute little love notes in their lunch box or in their bag to keep them going throughout the day. It'll be fun for your child to search around for the notes, as well as feeling comforted by your messages.

14. After school surprise

Whether you keep it the same each year or surprise your kids each time, plan something really exciting for after their first day of school, so they're really looking forward to it. It might be a trip to the cinema or a water-fight, but whatever it is, it's bound to suppress the back to school upsets.

15. Show and tell

What parent doesn't want to know every detail of their child's first day? Have them share the most exciting part of their school time with a show and tell special after school. They may share the name of a new friend or a piece of work or painting that they're particularly proud of. Make it one of your yearly first day of school traditions after teatime before they're too tired to share.

16. First day of school interview sheet

It can sometimes be harder to get information out of older kids. That's why a fun interview sheet could be the answer to your first day of school traditions.  Mariah Lesson of GigglesGalore has created a ready-made downloadable sheet you can get them to fill in. With questions including who is their current favourite friend and what do they want to be when they're older - these cute questionnaires are great to look back and compare in the later years, no doubt bringing back lots of fond memories.

17. Make a time capsule

On the last day of the holidays get your kids to put a variety of things from the summer in their very own time capsule. Bury it in the garden and dig it up again on the first day of school. See how much their interests have changed and their delight at rediscovering their buried treasure. You can even make a big event out of decorating the capsule together.

18. One last summer adventure

Plan something really special for the last day of the school summer holidays. This way your kids will be counting down the days and you won't have to deal with such disheartened little ones. You could build a den, take a family trip to the South West, or go and fly a kite. Whatever it may be, it'll make your last summer day together one that the whole family will enjoy.

19. Set goals together

 Mum-of-two, Sam is also a teacher and she is big on goal setting. “It helps my six-year-old know what he’s trying to achieve going in each day, almost gives him a purpose.” Each year we fill out a chalkboard with info about the upcoming school year, like their teacher, grade, and school. And we add ‘three things I want to achieve this year’. “This could be joining a new club, making two new friends, doing all eight monkey bars.”

We agree on them, write them down, and pop them in a drawer. Together they reflect on those goals. "Goal setting is important at any age and it really helps set a tone and purpose for a new school year," Sam tells us.

How first day of school traditions help

Back-to-school traditions can help kids stay grounded during this transition from the carefree days of summer to the more structured days of school. These rituals can help ease anxiety and frame the experience as a welcoming and special thing we get to do. By giving space to back-to-school traditions you’re also providing a space for children to sort out their feelings and express themselves. 

Dr Linda tells us; “Your children want to be listened to. If they are experiencing stresses or anxieties around the back-to-school season, the first thing you need to do is hear them. What’s more, when you listen, it’s important to do so in a non-judgemental environment, so your child feels like they can speak their mind freely. If not, you run the risk of shutting your child off which may prevent them from sharing their feelings and worries.”

Choosing a first day of school tradition

It can be something you stumbled upon on Instagram or found on Pinterest or it could be something you did as a kid. No matter how you choose they can be so important to settling your kids.

If you're not sure how to choose try involving your kids and encourage them to share their thoughts and feelings in this, let them be a part of creating the tradition with you. Share what you did as a kid, maybe it was something we did growing up that we want to pass on to our kids when they start school, or perhaps it’s something you’ve adopted as a family. 

Once kids are back at school it's time to start making a note of when do the kids break up from school? Whether or not you'll incur a fine for taking them out for a holiday, and what are the speediest dinners to make - check out our air fryer recipes.

Will the school day be extended in the UK? Now the UK is slowly recovering from the pandemic, attention has turned to the so-called ‘Covid catch-up plan’ for schools. 

It’s estimated that most children missed out on 23 weeks of school over the course of last year, and not as a result of a teacher strike, instead schools and colleges were forced to close to try and prevent the spread of coronavirus. Even though children are now back in the classroom, not everything is back to normal as all school exams have been cancelled for 2021 and much of day-to-day school life is vastly different from how it was pre-pandemic. 

The leaked proposals for education recovery, which were published by the Times newspaper this week, include major upheavals to the education system across England. But with doubt already cast on how effective the plans will actually be, some education experts are calling for funds to be diverted to help children catch-up in other areas of life.

Will the school day be extended in the UK?

The government is considering adding 30 minutes onto the end of the school day, according to leaked government proposals. Nothing has been confirmed for certain yet though, as funding for more catch-up plans will depend on the spending review in autumn.

One part of the Covid catch-up plan for schools, otherwise known as the education recovery plan, has already been announced. To help children close the gap in their learning created by the Covid-19 pandemic, the Department of Education has allocated a budget of £1 billion for an additional 100 million hours of tutoring. £250 million has also been allocated for further professional development for teachers, while schools and colleges themselves will be allocated funding to allow some year 13 students the option to repeat their final year. This is on top of the £1.7 billion announced earlier in the year for summer schools and mental health support for pupils.

Boris Johnson has called this the "next step" in the education recovery plan, saying it "should give parents confidence that we will do everything we can to support children who have fallen behind and that every child will have the skills and knowledge they need to fulfil their potential." However, this step has been dubbed by Geoff Barton, leader of the ASCL head teachers' union, as "hugely disappointing" and showing a failure by the government to recognise "the scale of learning loss" over the last year. The tutoring will be offered to those most in need of additional support and provided in smaller groups, but it won't be offered to all pupils.

However as noted, this is just one element of the whole education recovery plan. Education Secretary Gavin Williamson told BBC Radio 4's Today programme that plans to extend the school day were still "very much on the agenda" for later this year.

As part of the proposals, leaked earlier this week, children are set to have an extra 100 hours of schooling every year from 2022 and a minimum 35-hours in school per week. There may be more focus on one-to-one teaching and further tutoring in smaller groups for five million pupils across England as well.

Other proposals in the plan include extending the school day from 8am to 5pm or 6pm, with the additional hours used for extracurricular activities such as sports or art. However Sir Kevan Collins, the education recovery commissioner who created the plan, has argued that by making these extra hours voluntary, the children most in need of additional support would be most likely to miss out.

He told a House of Lords committee last month, “The more voluntary things are, the less likely they’re going to get to the hard to reach bits of your community.” 

The government has been working on this catch-up plan for schools over the last year, but despite not being finalised yet, the plan has recently hit a snag due to the heavy £15 billion it would reportedly cost to put into action. Working out at £700 per pupil over three years, the plan is supported by the Prime Minister but has received opposition from the chancellor Rishi Sunak and the Treasury.

Additionally, research published in May by the University of Cambridge suggests that keeping children in school for longer periods will not be enough to help fill the gaps in their education caused by disruption during the pandemic. The study, conducted by researcher Vaughan Connolly, used timetable data from almost 3000 schools in England to find the connection between changes in the amount of teaching time pupils received in England, maths, science and humanities subjects, and their performances in GCSE results for the same subjects. The results revealed that "even substantial increases in classroom teaching time would likely only lead to small improvements."

A more productive way to use the additional hours, Mr Connolly suggested, would be to support student's metacognitive skills by giving them the information they need to plan and evaluate their own learning.

The study also found that just more teaching was only "likely to do relatively little" to reduce the attainment gap between students on free school meals and others. An hour extra each week in English reduced the gap by 6% and an additional hour of maths reduced the gap by around 8%. When compared to the Education Endowment Foundation’s Teaching and Learning toolkit, which collects international evidence on teaching interventions and translates their effect into months of progress, the results are poor. Increased classroom teaching time is only likely to lead to two months of progress over a whole academic year, which is significantly less progress than the results of other inventions in the document.

The British Psychological Society has also suggested that resources would be better spent improving children’s social and personal skills. They’ve suggested that the government divert funds to activities like music, crafts and sports, all of which children also missed out on when schools were closed during two lockdowns.

Vivian Hill, vice-chair of the organisation's educational and child psychology division, has said that if the plans go ahead, "it’s important is that we don’t just fill those extra hours with more and more formal teaching sessions".

"It is about developing a balanced offer and recognising that learning is a dynamic process. We urge the government to use this as an opportunity to re-set the approach we take to education and our children within schools." She said, “Children don’t have to be sat at desks in a classroom to learn, giving them space to play sports, paint, try different crafts, and socialise will all lead to learning and the development of important life skills.

Will the school day be extended from now on? 

It’s not currently known if the government’s plans to have the school day extended will become a permanent fixture in education. 

The recovery plan, which has not been finalised yet, is due to come into play from 2022 and could last for a number of years to ensure all children who missed out on education during the pandemic are caught up.

Will the school day be extended across the rest of the UK?

There have been no plans suggested to extend the school day in other parts of the UK so far. The plans drawn up by Kevan Connolly only involve schools and other educational establishments in England, with other devolved nations making their own recovery plans for education.

First Minister Nicola Sturgeon did say that she would consider "tuition in the summer holidays and extended hours" for students in Scotland to ensure they can recover from the lost classroom time, however. When asked during First Minister's Questions in February this year whether the First Minister "would explore all feasible options for ensuring that our pupils can catch up on their lost education", Ms Sturgeon replied, "Yes, we absolutely will. We are doing and will continue to do everything that we can to ensure that the impact on children’s education is minimised, and we will consider taking action beyond that which is being taken right now."

A Level and GCSE retakes are an option worth considering for students who believe they can achieve better grades than those they received on results day.

As A-level results day 2024 arrives, many students in England, Wales and Northern Ireland are facing the impact of last year’s return to pre-pandemic grading standards, with fewer top grades being awarded. After a year of hard work, some students may feel disappointed with their results.

While we hope that most pupils will be pleased with their grades, others might be considering A-Level or GCSE retakes. To help, we’ve gathered the most up-to-date information and advice on the process, outlining the key factors to consider before deciding whether to retake an exam.

A-level retakes

If your teen needs specific grades to secure a place on a university course, retaking A-Levels might be worth considering. Most universities accept resit results, but this will delay their university entry by a year, as January resits are no longer available. They will need to wait until the following summer to retake the exams and then reapply.

Cost is another factor to consider. If your child moves on from their current school, you may need to cover the tuition and exam fees, particularly if they enrol in an independent college.

However, a missed grade doesn’t always necessitate a resit. Some universities may still accept students who narrowly miss their required grades or offer an alternative course. Clearing is another option to explore, as it could help your teen find a place at a different university. Additionally, there are many other post-18 routes, such as apprenticeships, to consider.

GCSE retakes

Under current rules, students who score below a 4 (previously a C) in Maths and English GCSEs must retake these subjects. Most schools and colleges allow students to resit their Maths and English GCSEs alongside other courses, either in November or the following summer.

If your teen has missed other grades needed for college entry, encourage them to discuss the situation with the college, as they may be flexible, especially if the grades were only narrowly missed.

How to retake A-levels and GCSEs

If your teen decides to resit an A-level, check whether they can do so at their current school. Alternatively, they can resit as a private candidate by enrolling in an online course or hiring a tutor. They will take the exams in person, at the same time as other A-level students, but will need to arrange their exam centre, which may cost around £175, depending on the location.

When will your teen know their resit grades?

If your teen resits exams in the summer, they will receive their results on A-Level or GCSE results day, like other students. A-level results are typically released on the third Thursday in August, with GCSE results following a week later. For those resitting GCSE Maths or English in the autumn, results are usually available in January, although this date can vary.

Things to consider before retaking A-levels or GCSEs

Encourage your teen to consider whether they are likely to achieve a higher grade on a retake. It may be helpful for them to discuss this with their subject teacher to get advice. If they have already secured a place on another university course, they should weigh up whether retaking is truly necessary.

Education expert Emma White, founder of the exam preparation service Mark My Papers, suggests your teen reflect on why they didn’t achieve the desired grades initially. Did they find the subject particularly challenging? Did they fully understand the exam technique required to secure higher grades? What would they do differently next time?

Matt Jones, founder of the student learning platform Oxbridge, recommends considering whether a different school, college, or learning provider might better suit your teen’s learning style. He also notes that some students may excel in more practical settings, such as apprenticeships or vocational training, which can lead to the same career goals without the stress of exams.

Do universities accept retakes?

Yes, universities do accept students with resit grades. However, your teen will need to reapply through UCAS with their new exam results, which will delay their university start by a year. It’s important to note that retaking exams does not guarantee a place on a competitive course.

Final words of advice for students considering A-level or GCSE retakes

Emma White offers this advice: “When considering retakes, it’s important to plan ahead. Think about your long-term goals and research the qualifications and grades you need to progress towards your career ambitions. For example, if you achieve a Grade 5 in GCSE English Language but want to study Medicine, check whether your chosen university requires a Grade 7. If it does, you might need to rethink your goals or resit that subject.

“Remember, GCSEs and A-Levels are simply the stepping stones to your next stage. If your A-Level grades fall short of your dream course, consider an alternative path or plan to retake the exams.”

In related news, here's everything you need to know about when GCSE certificates are issued, plus the date kids go back to school after the summer.

Knowing when to apply for primary schools in the UK will give you a better chance of not missing out on the school of your choice. 

Normally, primary school admissions are announced on 16 April each year - this is when parents will find out if their child got a primary school place at their chosen school for the next academic year. Starting school is a huge milestone in your child’s development and can feel just as emotional for parents!

The deadline to apply for schools is earlier than you might think, so if you’ve been thinking about where you’d like your child to go, read on to find out everything you need to know about when to apply for primary schools.

When to apply for primary schools in the UK

Applications start a year before your child will go to primary school. For example,  applications for primary school places open in September 2023 for children due to start school in the academic year beginning in September 2024. So this means you need to make sure you get your application in the year before they are due to start school.

The deadline for primary school applications is 15 January 2024. To apply for primary schools, your child must be aged three or just turned four.

Just because your child is at a nursery or infant school that has a linked primary school doesn’t mean their place is secured - you will still need to put in an application.

How do I apply for a primary school place in the UK? 

To apply for a place at a state primary school, you need to go through your local authority. Most councils allow you to apply online, but some might get you to fill out an application form. 

You can start the process of applying online by heading to Gov.uk and putting in your postcode. This will find your local authority and you can then follow the instructions to start your application online.

Before applying for a primary school it’s recommended that you visit the school you want your child to attend, as well as a couple of back up options in case you don’t get your first choice. 

Contact the school to make an appointment, or look on their website to find out if they have an open day where parents can come and look at the facilities and talk to teachers at the same time. Often schools prefer to have an open day, so don’t assume you can come and visit the school whenever you like, as this may not be possible.

It’s also worth bearing in mind that some primary and infant schools have catchment (or designated) areas. This is basically the local area surrounding the school where it usually takes most of its pupils.

If you want to apply for a place at a private primary school, you will need to apply directly through the school.

When do children start school?

Children start school full-time in the September after they turn four. This means they will turn five during their first year at school.

If you think your child isn't ready to start school full-time in the September after they turn four, perhaps because they have a late summer birthday and will be very young in their year, then you can your child can start school later.

They just need to be in full-time education before they reach ‘compulsory school age’.

Compulsory school age is defined by the government as follows: "Your child must start full-time education once they reach compulsory school age. This is on 31 December, 31 March or 31 August following their fifth birthday - whichever comes first. If your child’s fifth birthday is on one of those dates then they reach compulsory school age on that date.

"For example, if your child reaches compulsory school age on 31 March, they must start full-time education at the beginning of the next term (summer term that year)."

What if I want my child to start primary school later? 

If you think your child isn’t ready to start school full-time in the September after they turn four, perhaps because they have a late summer birthday and are still quite young for their year, then they can start later.

They just have to be in full-time education before they reach ‘compulsory school age’.

According to Gov.uk, compulsory school age is on 31 December, 31 March or 31 August following their fifth birthday - whichever comes first. If your child's fifth birthday is on one of those dates then they reach compulsory school age on that date.

They can start:

• Part time
• Part-way through the year
• In the next school year after they turn five

You’ll still need to apply for a school place at the same time as everyone else. Just make sure you request your child’s later start when you apply. 

AS and A levels are the next big step in a child's education after their GCSE examinations.

This expert guide to AS and A-levels will take you through the basics of how they work, so you can be ready to help your teen through their choices and reap the rewards on A level results day.

They are the oldest school qualifications in Britain, having been launched in 1951, but if your child wants to attend university, A-levels are just as important as ever. And now that the new Labour government has reversed Tory plans to replace A Levels with the Advanced British Standard, it seems they are definitely here to stay.

What are AS and A-levels?

After the broad range of subjects offered by GSCEs, A-levels (short for Advanced Levels) allow your child to specialise in the subjects that interest them the most or in which they excel.

A Levels are subject-based qualifications that students in the UK may take at the end of their secondary education, usually around ages 17-18. They can be studied at secondary school (in sixth form) or at college and are often required for university entry.

Most students choose to do three A-level subjects – often geared towards the university course they are considering or the career they hope to pursue - with exams at the end of the two years of study. Some students take 4 A-levels if they plan to apply to a competitive university like Oxford or Cambridge – or wish to study a course like law or medicine. Students who are particularly strong at Maths might also take Further Maths to develop their understanding of the subject, as well as bolster their uni application.

No matter how many A-levels your teen takes, they will study all the subjects continuously and simultaneously over their two years in Years 12 and 13, and then take the examinations in the summer term of their final year.

To study A-levels, your child will probably need at least five GCSE passes over a grade 4. If they didn’t manage this in English Language or Maths, they will need to retake it in Sixth Form, according to the current rules. Over the two years, students will be assessed through a series of modules or units, as well as coursework and written exams, though the mix will depend on the subject.

Your child could also take an AS Level in the first year of 6th form, as well as their A-levels. However, these are becoming less popular now. Once they were a halfway house to getting an A-level. If pupils did well in their AS Level, they would go on to take to the full A-level. Many schools felt it took the pressure off.

However, AS Levels have now become ‘decoupled’ from A-levels. They are now separate standalone qualifications which have to be studied as separate add-ons. Nevertheless, some teachers still see AS Levels as a useful way to boost a student’s UCAS points, as they can add up to 20 if they get an A. But do bear in mind that universities are still mostly looking at A-level grades.

AS Levels can also bolster your child’s personal statement, provide them with some exam practice, and show off their hard work and curiosity. "AS Levels can still be useful as they provide a valuable stepping stone between GCSEs and A-levels," says David Seaton, Assistant Director of Student Recruitment & Admissions at the University of Bedfordshire. "They are an opportunity for students to gauge their interest and aptitude in a subject before committing to a full A-level course. They can also provide additional UCAS Tariff points for entry to university."

A-level grades explained

A-levels are graded on a scale from A* to E. The highest grade is A* while E is the lowest passing grade. Below that is a U. AS-levels are graded the same way, but there's no A*.

When applying to university, AS-level grades (for subjects that were just taken for one year) and final A-level grades are converted into UCAS points, with the higher grades scoring higher points. University courses require a certain amount of UCAS points, depending on the popularity of the course and the standard of grades that the university is willing to accept.

Which A-levels are most popular?

In theory, your child has a large variety of subjects to choose from. There are more than 75 A-level subjects on offer, ranging from Biblical Hebrew to Marine Biology. The choices are similar to those at GCSE and usually allow students to carry on the subjects that they like from GCSE. Many schools/colleges require a GCSE in a subject to carry it on at A level. However, much will depend on what is offered at the schools and colleges local to you.

Some schools or colleges offer extra subjects at AS that might not have been an option at GCSE. Psychology, Photography and Economics have all become popular choices for A-levels so it's worth checking out several schools and colleges in your area to see what's on offer for your teen.

For the last ten years, Maths has been the most popular subject at A Level, partly because it’s seen as so useful in the job market. According to the latest figures by the exam priovider OCR, in 2023 Maths was followed in terms of popularity by:

• Psychology
• Biology  
• Chemistry  
• History
• Sociology  
• Business Studies  
• Art and Design
• Economics
• Physics  

Are A Levels getting 'easier'?

There has been speculation over recent years that A Levels are getting 'easier'. One study compared A-level mathematics exams from 1960, 1990 and 2010s to evaluate whether standards have changed and A-levels are easier.

“The fact there has been no decline in standards since the 1990s is a big surprise,” says Ian Jones, one of the scholars behind Fifty years of A‐level mathematics: have standards changed?. “Perhaps people can now worry less that standards continue to decline – there is no evidence they have changed since the 1990s – and focus more confidently on making sure A-levels are fit for the purposes they need to serve nowadays.”

Concerns about A-levels getting easier have stemmed from research that reveals an increase in students today achieving A grades. According to data from The Spectator shared by School Guide, only 18% achieved an A in 1994, whilst 26% of students received an A or A* in 2014 and 2019. Whilst grade inflation has led to higher grades for UK students, it doesn't necessarily mean that A-levels are getting easier. This is because as the grades go up, so do expectations.

What options are there other than A levels?

All young people have to be educated or trained until the age of 18. But that doesn’t mean they have to take A-levels if they are not the right fit for them. Indeed, worry about student debt and the cost-of-living crisis means more young people are opting to start training for their careers after GCSEs rather than aiming for university.

If your teen has a strong pull towards certain jobs or set of skills, other choices for 16-year-olds include:

• Apprenticeships: These are work-based training programs that allow young people to earn a wage while gaining practical skills and qualifications in a specific industry. Apprenticeships combine on-the-job training with class-based learning and can take anywhere between one and four years to complete. They are available in a variety of industries from construction, nursing and fashion, to film and TV and at various levels, from intermediate, which is equivalent to GCSEs, to higher and degree apprenticeships, which are equivalent to university degrees. Apprenticeships are popular for those who prefer hands-on experience and want to enter the workforce directly while continuing their education. Visit www.findapprenticeship.service.gov.uk to find out more
• T Levels: This stands for Technical Levels. They are an alternative to A-levels and were introduced in 2020 for students aged 16-19 who want to focus on technical and vocational education. Like A-levels, your teen will study for two years at school or college, spending 80 per cent of their time in the classroom and 20 per cent with an employer. There are more than 20 subjects on offer, including Catering and Hospitality, and Education and Early years. Like A-levels, they will also earn UCAS points, should they wish to go on to university. A T-level is equivalent to three A-levels. Visit www.tlevels.gov.uk and pop in your postcode to find out what’s on offer near you.
• BTECs: This stands for Business and Technology Education Council qualifications. They are vocational qualifications that focus on practical, hands-on learning in specific industries like business, engineering and health, and can be taken at various levels, from introductory (equivalent to GCSEs) to higher national diplomas (equivalent to the first two years of a university degree). They are designed for students who prefer coursework and practical assessments over exams and are often used as a route to further education, apprenticeships, or employment since many UK universities accept BTEC qualifications as an alternative to A Levels. Higher-level BTECs, such as BTEC Nationals or BTEC Extended Diplomas, are well-recognised by universities and can provide a strong foundation for degree-level study

What to know more? Read When is GCSE results day? or When are GCSE certificates issued?

A five-term school year has been proposed by the Education Secretary Gavin Williamson as a way to help kids catch up with the school work they missed over the last year in lockdown.

On March 8, all children returned to school as the third lockdown in England is slowly lifting. Aside from the announcement about a possible five-term school year that could cut into the 2021 summer holidays, there are already other changes to the way schools run in place.

These include the mass testing programme that requires students to take a lateral flow test twice a week. Plus, secondary school pupils have to wear face masks in the classroom and around the school in communal areas.

The idea of a five-term school year is another measure to help bring kids back into school and up to date with their education. It was first proposed by Mr Williamson as a way to bolster kids’ learning, following months of homeschooling. 

How would a five-term school year work?

To fit the two additional terms into the school year, the government are considering shortening school holidays from the standard six-week break and making school days longer. These two measures alone would extend the amount of time children spend in school, allowing them time for two more terms worth of work.

These are just two of the main measures being looked at currently as part of the government's catch up plan for schools. A full announcement on whether the five-term school year will go ahead and how it will work is expected in the coming weeks.

The Education Secretary told Sky News, “We’re looking at holidays, we’re looking at lengthening the school day, we’re looking at a whole range of different measures.” 

When asked about whether this would include shortening the summer holiday, Gavin Williamson told the i paper that a long-term re-structure of the school year was being considered. "I think we should never be nervous about looking at new routes and different ways of doing things.”

He said there had "always been a lively and strong debate around...the distribution of holidays."

"It’s right to have that discussion, look at the evidence and make an assessment as to what are the best options, about how we can really drive children’s attainment in schools, especially children from the most disadvantaged backgrounds, so this is why we’ve asked Kevan [Collins, the education recovery tsar]  to look at all options.”

Mr Williamson said that the plan would be announced in due course and introduced over the next 18 months, lasting at least until 2024. It will be entirely evidence based, he said, “We’ve got to look at what is going to have the biggest positive impact on children’s lives.

"That's the approach that we're taking and that's what we're looking at - how we can improve the outcomes for children."

Secondary schools have already been asked to deliver summer schools later this year for incoming Year 7 pupils. One-to-one and small group tutoring schemes are also being expanded as part of the £700million allocated to schools in the Chancellor's budget.

The government is also reportedly considering “enhancing the support” teachers are given, “supporting them in their professional development, making sure they can be the very best of themselves.” 

However, he didn't make any further comments about whether teachers' pay, which is currently frozen, would be impacted by this.

Although the full plan hasn’t been announced yet, the idea of a five-term year has already garnered a response. 

Notably, Ofsted chief inspector Amanda Spielman urged the government to consider the plan carefully. She warned that it could backfire if children, who’ve been in and out of school for the last year, weren’t given enough thought in the decision. 

“There’s no point adding time here or moving time there if you don’t get a groundswell of support,” she told Sky News. “If children simply don’t turn up for extra time or summer schools, for example, you could end up putting a lot of effort into something that doesn’t achieve the objective. 

“My concern is to make sure that we go with the grain of what parents will embrace to make sure that all children get the very most of their education.” 

However, others have pointed out that this system has already been attempted successfully in many of the 15 former CTC (City Technology College) schools around the country - including those in Bristol, Derby and Nottingham. Instead of having half-terms, the schools created eight-week terms, followed by a two-week break and four-week summer. 

How many school terms in a year in the UK at the moment?

Currently, there are three terms in a school year in the UK: Autumn Term, Spring Term and Summer Term. Each term is split into two, with a half-term in the middle.

The school year begins in the autumn, normally in the first few days of September and ends in the summer after the exam period for those in GCSE, BTEC and A-level years. There are longer holidays for Easter and Christmas in between. 

These fun science experiments for kids are a great way to spend a rainy day.

Parents are always on the lookout for new and exciting things to do with kids - be that the latest kid's film on Netflix or some child-friendly arts and crafts. But what about something that's educational too?

These fun science experiments for kids are informative and the perfect antidote to screen time, allowing kids to get messy whilst learning some of the basic principles of science.

From an erupting at-home volcano to some seriously sticky slime, these experiments are both easy and safe, requiring ingredients already available in your kitchen cupboard.

So be sure to consider these fun at-home science tutorials for the upcoming Easter holidays...

Fun science experiments for kids

These fun science experiments for kids are sure to keep boredom at bay. And the perfect indoor activity for kids when the wet weather hits. But just to be safe, keep a responsible adult on hand to make sure that all these experiments are done safely.

Colour changing milk

This is a great way to teach children about colour mixing. You just need milk, food colouring and a squirt of washing up liquid. Use a cotton bud to swirl the colours and then enjoy the magic as the colours mix together.

Try it: Colour changing milk experiment

Elephant's toothpaste

This super fun experiment does require an ingredient that you might not have in your cupboard. But it's so easy to get, and your kids will be laughing about the results of this experiment for days to come! Warning: You might want to try this one outside.

Try it: Elephant's toothpaste by TheDadLab

Make your own play dough

Making your own play dough is one of the simplest science experiments out there. It's all about chemical reactions! The ingredients come together create a mixture, where they're physically combined but no reaction has happened. When the water and food colouring are added though, the mix forms a solution. Then the solution is heaped together and kneaded, which then forms a whole new substance because chemical reactions have taken place. How exciting!

Try it: Our best play dough recipe

Create your very own rainbow 

Not only does this rainbow jar make a great addition to your home, but it also teaches children about density as the heavier layers fall to the bottom, creating the rainbow effect.

Try it: Rainbow jars experiment by Playdough to Plato

A volcanic eruption

https://youtu.be/rvuRtUNHBcU

This classic experiment will have your kids erupt with excitement, whilst teaching them all about the fascinating world of volcanoes. Using common cupboard items like vinegar, baking soda and washing up liquid, this experiment couldn't be simpler. Just be sure that children are supervised and standing a safe distance away when the action happens.

Try it: National History Museum's DIY Volcano

Bounce an egg

Pickle an egg in vinegar for several days and you'll be left with a transparent bouncy egg. Don't bounce it on your best carpet though, just in case it doesn't work...

Try it: Make a bouncy egg by The Chocolate Muffin Tree

Grow your own crystals

This science project shows how crystals are formed, and the end results taste pretty good as well. While they're easy to make, they do require a bit of patience - just keep reminding your kids that it will be worth it in the end!

Try it: Grow your own crystals by Happiness Is Homemade 

Create giant gummy bears

Teach kids about osmosis with this super simple experiment. Drop some gummy bears in water and wait for them to grow.

Try it: Giant gummy bears by Mama Smiles

Make water go for a walk

This impressive looking experiment is very easy to set up - you just need some jars, food colouring and kitchen roll. It helps explain capillary action - how water ‘climbs' up to the top of plants and trees from their roots - in a totally visual way that most kids will get.

Try it: Walk on water by Coffee Cups and Crayons 

Make your own slime

The ultimate fun experiment, demonstrating what happens when different chemical compounds react together - and also providing plenty of enjoyment after it's made.

All you need is PVA glue and some laundry detergent - Aldi's Almat Laundry Gel is apparently the best one to use.

Try it: How to make slime by Fun At Home With Kids

Ice Cream

https://youtu.be/_1tCdgal30Y

Have your kids learn about the millions of tiny ice crystals that make up their favourite frozen treat, then enjoy a tasty bowl afterwards.

This tutorial from the Science Museum will transform flavoured milk into a delicious ice cream flavour in five minutes and all without a freezer!

Try it: The Science Museum's Instant ice cream tutorial

Play with dip-dye

Dip-dying fabric is a great way to learn all about molecules and bones, as the dye bonds with the cotton on your fabric and actually becomes - or "bonds with" - the material. It will also teach your little one exactly why getting permanent pen marks out of ANYTHING is so difficult.

Try it: How to dip dye fabric

Need some more ideas to keep the kids busy? Why not try making one of these calming glitter jars?

School exams have once again been disrupted in 2021 due to the ongoing coronavirus pandemic and the third lockdown, which has seen schools closed since January. 

Even though pupils now have a date to go back to school after lockdown as part of the government's roadmap, they've still lost out on the months of full-time classes that would have prepared them to take school exams this summer.

During the first lockdown last year, GCSE and A-level exams were cancelled for millions of students. To replace them, Ofqual produced a system to calculate students' grades based on how the pupils ranked in their class and how the school or college had performed in previous years. The result was a disaster as thousands were downgraded by the algorithm and stories of disappointed A-level and BTEC pupils soon began to hit the headlines. The government finally made a U-turn and allowed teachers to give grades, but not before thousands of hopeful students lost the place they otherwise would have had at university.

This time around, the government has taken quicker action. Their most recent announcement lays out exactly what's happening with exams and grading this year.

Are school exams cancelled in 2021?

All school exams are cancelled in 2021, Education Secretary Gavin Williamson has confirmed.

He said, "Last year, all four nations of the UK found their arrangements for awarding grades did not deliver what they needed, with the impact felt painfully by students and their parents.

"Although exams are the fairest way we have of assessing what a student knows, the impact of this pandemic now means that it is not possible to have these exams this year. I can confirm that GCSEs and A and AS Level exams will not go ahead this summer. This year we are going to put our trust in teachers rather than algorithms."

At the same time, he said that this would only be the case for the SATs, GCSE and A-level exams, as vocational qualifications such as BTECs were still allowed to go ahead if schools and colleges thought it was the right thing to do.

"I know students and staff have worked hard to prepare for the January exams and assessments of vocational and technical qualifications, and we want to allow schools and colleges to continue with these assessments where they judge it is right to do so." Gavin Williamson said, "No college should feel pressured to offer these and we will ensure all students are able to progress fairly, just as we will with VTQs in the summer."

On announcing school closures during the third lockdown, the prime minister also said, "We recognise that this [school closures] will mean it is not possible or fair for all exams to go ahead this summer as normal. The Education Secretary will work with Ofqual to put in place alternative arrangements.

“We will provide extra support to ensure that pupils entitled to free school meals will continue to receive them while schools are closed, and we’ll distribute more devices to support remote education.

“I completely understand the inconvenience and distress this late change will cause millions of parents and pupils up and down the country.

“Parents whose children were in school today may reasonably ask why we did not take this decision sooner.

“The answer is simply that we have been doing everything in our power to keep schools open, because we know how important each day in education is to children’s life chances.”

The prime minister echoed this in a later statement as he wrote on Twitter, 'No child should be left behind as a result of learning lost during the pandemic. That’s why students will receive grades awarded and determined by teachers', adding that it was a fair system that would allow young people to progress onto 'the next stage of their education or career'.

How will pupils be assessed instead?

Students will receive grades given by their teachers instead of school exams in 2021. The education secretary said that the decision would include "assessments covering what they were taught and not what they have missed.

"Teachers have a good understanding of their students’ performance and how they compare to other students this year and from those of previous years.”

He added that the grading system would be different this year and that "there is going to be no algorithms whatsoever but there will be a very clear and robust appeals mechanism.”

Teachers will be able to draw on other evidence such as mock exams, coursework and any other work completed over the course, such as essays or in-class tests. Exam boards will also offer teachers optional assessment questions for students to answer, to help them decide which grades to award. It is thought that teachers will have complete flexibility to choose how long students have to complete the test and where it will be carried out.

Unlike last year, there won't be any programmes or algorithms used to standardise the grades if they appear to be too generous. However, teachers will have to submit their grades to exam boards by June 18 so they the boards can carry out quality assurance checks via random sampling and targeted scrutiny.

When is results day this year?

A-level results day for students is on August 10 this year, while GCSE students will receive their grades two days later on August 12.

Normally results day takes place in the middle of August but the early submission date for teachers' grades this year has meant that results day is earlier. It's thought that by bringing the date forward, there will be more time for hopeful university students to secure their places or launch appeals to have their grades changed.

Students will still be able to appeal their grades this year, even though they are assessed by teachers. They can request a re-mark if they have reasonable belief that their teacher has been unfair or if they feel like their specific circumstances, such as bereavement, were not taken properly into account in the decision.

Any pupil who was supposed to take GCSE or A-level school exams in 201 will also still have the opportunity to sit their exam in the autumn, when the lockdown restrictions are over.

There's no need to leave the house to explore the world with these amazing virtual tours for kids! 

While we're still looking for things to do with kids in lockdown, virtual tours have continued to be popular. Now, some of the most famous locations around the world have now taken their sites online. That includes historical landmarks like Edinburgh Castle, right through to virtual tours of animal enclosures at San Diego Zoo.

So if you're looking for a break from homeschooling, have tried all the Zoom games for kids out there and are wondering how you're going to keep busy over half-term in the third lockdown, then you've come to the right place. But there are also so many educational tours to choose from too, so you could always incorporate them into their daily timetable as an alternative to their textbooks.

Check out the best virtual tours for kids in 2021...

The best free virtual tours for kids

These virtual tours are brilliant indoor activites for kids when the rain hits. Being a great way for them to explore the big wide world, in the comfort of their own living rooms. Whether they're a keen historian and would love to see the insides of the Tower of London or a young Vincent Van Gough and set on seeing the sunflowers in person, there's a tour for everyone.

Virtual tours of museums

British Museum, England

While the British Museum’s 60 galleries would normally be packed with visitors, their doors are closed for now. But you can watch, listen and learn all about the Egyptians and their bizarre mummifications, the Romans’ glutinous eating habits and lots more on their virtual tours.

Explore the museum itself here.

Through the Museum of the World online tour, you can browse through large selections of the museum and search through the exhibits by date, continent and category (art and design, trade and conflict etc). Each one comes with accompanying audio, offering a fascinating backstory to each piece.

RAF Museum, England

Calling all flying fans! This one's for you. In this virtual tour of London's RAF museum, little ones can explore three different sites - including two aeroplane hangars.

You'll need to have Adobe Flash Player installed on your device for this one but it's a great option for something a little different.

Natural History Museum, England

The Natural History Museum has not experienced so much disruption to their usual steady stream of visitors since the Second World War, when a number of the galleries were taken over to provide tools and training for British secret spy networks.

However, the museum is still committed to educating us all on the amazing world around us. Explore the deep oceans with their virtual venture into the life of a blue whale. Or, why not flick through the fascinating, and sometimes hilarious photos from the latest Wildlife Photographer of the Year exhibit? Then go on to explore the museum itself with their virtual tour from Google Arts & Culture. With over 300,000 specimens to browse, along with 14 digital exhibits, it will certainly keep kids and adults alike busy!

The museum has also announced that its family festival, which teaches kids about plants, pollination and the environment, will be online this year. Running from July 27 to August 9, the festival will run a range of activities that are designed to suit all ages and be fun, as well as educational. You can keep up to date with all the activities on offer on the museum's website.

Smithsonian Museum of Natural History, USA

This world-famous museum in Washington D.C is now open online and is one of the best virtual tours for kids out there. Explore every single one of the exhibits with a 360-degree-view on their website.

In the Sant Ocean Hall, you can get up close and personal with a blue whale like you’ve never seen before. Many of the objects have small photo icons, which you can also click on and view information or closer images of the exhibit.

Virtual tours of zoos and aquariums

San Diego Zoo, USA 

San Diego Zoo is the most popular zoos in the United States. With all kinds of animals from all over the world - from tigers and elephants to penguins and platypuses - the site attracts more than 3.2million visitors every year!

Just like all other attractions around the world, San Diego Zoo have had to close their doors during the coronavirus pandemic. However, their live cams are certainly up and running through their website.  Take a trip over the pond and explore the lives of some of the world's most loveable animals.

Monterey Aquarium

Monterey Aquarium is one of the most famous aquariums in the world. Over the first lockdown, they set up live streams around many of their enclosures so that aquatic fans around the world could watch the goings on of these beautiful animals.

The ones to watch have definitely got to the be jellyfish, sea otters and sharks. If you're lucky, you might even catch feeding time! The aquarium also has their own aviary with loads of sea birds and for anyone feeling a little 'locked down', there's the Monterey Bay cam. Set up to look out across the sea, you can watch the waves coming across the shore from the comfort of your own home.

Accompanied by relaxing music, these cams are the perfect way to relax for both adults and kids.

London Zoo, England

If you don't fancy booking a ticket to the zoo now it's open again, from the comfort of your own home, you can burrow or nest, and explore the lives of all the wonderful creatures at London Zoo. With webcams and live streams, zoo keeper diary updates and behind-the-scenes footage, you'll be able to get up close and personal with the animal kingdom.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6FCFSgHz2tw

You can also check out their Youtube channel, where you can watch all the cutest baby animals in action and find out more about the important conservation work that the zoo does.

Cincinnati Zoo, USA

This is one of the oldest and most established zoos in the United States, with a collection of almost 2,000 animals.

They have taken their online tour to the next level, introducing the world to their beautiful animals through Facebook Live videos. Their Home Safari series highlights their conservation work. Tune in live, every day from 3pm.

Edinburgh Zoo

This Scottish zoo has set up live streams so little ones can watch animals like penguins, pandas, lions and tigers for free. If you time it right, you might even be able to see them at feeding time with the keepers.

While the experience is completely free, the zoo is accepting donations to help support the animals during the coronavirus pandemic.

Virtual tours of art galleries

The Louvre, Paris

This famous French gallery is opening its doors virtually, with art lovers all over the world able to tour from the comfort of their own home. There's lots of tours on offer, including The Advent of the Artist, Power Plays, and Egyptian Antiquities.

Van Gogh Museum, Netherlands 

After his death, Van Gogh became one of the most famous painters in the world. Many of his paintings, including the sunflowers, hang in the Van Gogh Museum in Amsterdam. If your child loves painting or has a school project on the artist coming up, this is the best chance to see these incredible art works up close.

You can take your own trip through the galleries and explore the world of this incredible artist, through the virtual tour of the museum on Google Arts & Culture.

The National Gallery, England

Sitting in the middle of Trafalgar Square, the National Gallery is one of London's most famous buildings. If you've never had the chance to walk the halls, looking at all the incredible artwork on display, now's your chance!

Online through their website, you can take a stroll through the Renaissance era and view over 300 of their paintings in a tour of 18 rooms.

The gallery are even offering tutorials on their Instagram page, like how to use flowers from your walk to create your very own Van Gogh's Sunflowers piece.

Guggenheim Museum, New York

There are actually four different Guggenheim museums all around the world but this virtual tour will take you round the Guggenheim Museum in New York. Kids and adults alike will enjoy exploring all their most impressive art works online.

Through the museum's online collection, you can go into the worlds of artists like Pablo Picasso, Piet Mondrian and Jeff Koons.

Virtual tours of national parks

Yellowstone National Park, USA

Home to a real-life super volcano, Yellowstone National Park in Wyoming has some really impressive geological features - like a Grand Canyon and mammoth hot springs. While the super volcano sits dormant and won't be erupting anytime soon, there's no better time than now to explore America's great outdoors - from your laptop.

Get up close and personal with all the bubbling basins and mud volcanos you fancy, with Yellowstone's virtual tours, available on their website.

Stonehenge, England

One of the biggest mysteries out there is the origin of Stonehenge. Now you and your little ones can learn all about it from the comfort of your own living room, with their in-depth and informative virtual tour.

Click on the pulsing icons on the video to dive deeper into the mystery. Learn all about this marvel of human (or alien?) creation.

Kenai Fjords, USA 

In Alaska, one of the northwest (read: coldest) states in the USA is home to a whole host of glaciers, fjords and icebergs. Through Google Arts & Culture you can explore this chilly new world on a virtual kayak. Take in the beautiful scenery right through to the darkest, iciest crevasses.

You'll need a pair of headphones for this one.

Virtual tours of theme parks

The World of Harry Potter

Virtual tours for kids don't come more magical than Harry Potter's wizarding world! Using this amazing tool from Google Maps, you can explore all the places J.K Rowling's magic world was based on. See the London market that was the inspiration for Diagon Alley and the famous Platform 9 3/4 that whisked the witches and wizards off to Hogwarts.

While you might not be able to enjoy the treats of Honeyduke's sweet shop or jump on the Hogwarts Express, this tour is the closest thing to it!

Online tours of castles, landmarks and palaces

The Tower of London 

Getting tickets to the Tower of London over any school holiday normally requires queues of at least an hour. This time around though, it's not only free but there's no queuing needed!

Simply visit the Tower of London on YouVisit.com for a fully guided tour around this iconic site in London. Alongside an explanation of the history of the fortress, which sits in the middle of the city and has done for hundreds of years, there's there's a walk through of the crown jewels (which are still kept in the tower today) and even a tour around the infamous Bloody Tower.

Complete with audio and a 360 degree walking view of all buildings on the site, this is one of the best tours we've seen this year. Kids are set for a history lesson unlike any they've seen before!

The White House

https://www.facebook.com/ObamaWhiteHouse/videos/10155140995934238

Ever wanted to see inside the White House? In this free Facebook video, former president Barack Obama takes us on a tour of the historical home, and the 360 feature allows viewers to look around at their own pace. The narration provides fascinating insight and history into how the White House came to be.

Windsor Castle, England

Windsor Castle is the oldest occupied castle in the world! Although the Queen regularly spends her time here at the weekends, it's open to the public to come and have a look around.

Now, they've gone one step further and offered an online virtual tour of the castle. Set up for a state banquet, you can zoom in, out and use the "i" information icons to learn all about the room. It's a picture perfect experience for kids fascinated by history.

Buckingham Palace, England

Ever wanted to see inside the Queen’s royal residence?

You can now have a nosey around some of the vast rooms in Buckingham Palace. The tour was originally created in honour of London Fashion Week 2018, so many of the exhibits on show are of extravagant clothes fit for a king. Housed in extravagant rooms you can see it all through this feature by Google Arts and Culture.

Edinburgh Castle, Scotland

Can you spot Queen Mary of Scot’s initials above the doorframe in Edinburgh Castle?

Thanks to Google Arts and Culture, you can have a look inside the famous Scottish castle and learn all about the infamous kings and queens that once walked around inside its walls.

Roman Baths, England

Take a dip into the Roman times with this walkthrough of the Roman baths in Bath. Their virtual tour really makes you feel like you’re there, as you walk through the entrance and by-pass the ticket office – straight into the centre of the site.

The link panel on the right side of your screen will help you navigate and teach all curious minds about the people who bathed here and gods who were worshipped.

With homeschooling back on the agenda for families, experts have warned that children without laptops or suitable digital devices will struggle with school work.

So how can you donate a laptop for homeschooling to help a child with their education?

The idea of donating laptops to kids in need is not a new one. However, the scheme - which was originally kicked off by the government along with various broadband discounts for homeschooling during the pandemic - has snowballed since last year. Now, more people than ever are wanting to donate their old laptops.

Everyone from the BBC to independent organisations, families and businesses are getting involved with supplying laptops to schools, to help disadvantaged children with their homeschooling in lockdown.

Here's how you can donate a laptop for homeschooling too:

How to donate a laptop for homeschooling

To donate a laptop to a child, you have to go through an organisation, a local council or a school. After contacting the organisation, they'll go through the steps with you on how to donate. This include details on what to do about privacy and the equipment that the device needs to come with to make it viable for donation.

The BBC Make a Difference campaign is at the forefront of this and has a list of 26 charities and organisations on their website who are helping to collect laptops. Some only operate in particular parts of England, while others are national charities and will even come and collect the laptop or device from you. Some organisations on the list aren't just accepting laptops, they'll also take old phones and tablets to help with homeschooling.

National organisations collecting laptops for homeschooling:

• ADISA / Digital Access For All - Collecting laptops from all UK businesses.
• Business2Schools
• Computer Aid - Accepting donations from businesses. They will also come and collect the laptops from individuals from anywhere in the UK.
• LetsLocalise
• Vodafone: The Great British Tech Appeal - Only accepting donations of phones or tablets.

There are plenty of other charities and organisation on the BBC's website that are local to individual areas and will serve local schools in that region.

London-based charity, Restart, for example are also accepting laptops and have a list of charities for other parts of the UK who are collecting laptops.

These charities work in addition to the government's Get Help with Tech scheme. The programme was set up last year and 560,000 devices were given to schools and local councils. In 2021, they pledged to offer another 440,000 devices, bringing the total to more than 1 million. They also expanded the scheme to offer laptops and other devices to 16 to 19 year olds in further education.

This is the easiest way to donate your old laptop for homeschooling but some councils and schools will also accept direct donations. To go through this process, it's best to contact the local council or school directly as they'll be able to offer information on how they're receiving laptops as part of the programme.

Anywhere accepting laptops for donation will probably have specifications in place. This means there are only certain types of laptops that you can donate. This is to ensure that they'll work effectively with new school programs and be helpful to students.

The laptops will then be used by the children to access important free homeschooling resources and special educational apps to help with homeschooling. They'll also help carers and parents who are working from home with kids during lockdown, offering the chance for children to learn independently.

What kind of laptops can you donate?

To support online learning, laptops have to meet a minimum requirement of functionality. While many of the organisations listed above will have different requirements, depending on how much refurbishment they'll willing to do on the devices, laptops that have the following are likely to be donated successfully:

• A working power supply or charger
• WIFI capability built-in
• Webcam built-in (as most homeschooling takes place over video)
• A mimimum of 2GB RAM
• A minimum of 16GB hard disk
• Laptops must no older than 2008 with Windows 7 functionality, if they're not Apply MacBooks or Chromebooks etc.

Some local councils are not currently accepting laptops or mobile devices but will take laptops.

Is it safe to donate a laptop?

Local councils and many organisations listed on the BBC's website will clear any personal information on the laptop. Using specialised programmes, they'll make sure there's no personal information on the device before it's given to schools.

Norton Security also has detailed information about how you can clear the laptop yourself on their website, if you want to give it a go before donating for extra security.

Most us do banking and shopping online. We also store our passwords in auto-fill and have logged loads of 'cookies' over the years. It's important to clear this information both for you and for the child receiving the laptop, so that it's safe and suitable for them to use.

It's not surprising that homeschooling is getting the better of millions of families. Now we are in the throws of a third lockdown with schools closed, parents are once again trying to juggle their own work whilst making sure that children do theirs, too.

The difficulties have led to many asking if homeschooling is compulsory during lockdown - as it's not only the adults who are struggling, it's children too.

Many parents and carers are worried about the effect lockdown could have on children. This includes how far they might fall behind in school - with a lack of structure being a top concern.

However, homeschooling children is easier said than done - especially if you have to work from home with the kids around too. No matter how much you may want your kids to focus on their lessons and studies, it's almost impossible to stop them straying from their desks, distracting their siblings and asking for snacks multiple times throughout the day.

There might be days when frazzled families feel like letting the kids have their way, especially with so many parents' homeschooling experiences going awry. But is this allowed? Is homeschooling compulsory during lockdown? Here's what the rules are around children learning at home and where you can find help if you're struggling to get them to study.

Is homeschooling compulsory during lockdown?

During lockdown 3.0, children have to follow the rules set by their school during normal school hours - even when they are learning from home. As the government have said in their guidance to parents, 'Alongside any work your children receive from school, you can try using online educational resources covering various subjects and age groups.'

This means school and homework is largely compulsory while schools are closed and children are learning from home.

In legal terms, this is because during lockdown, a child's home just becomes an extension of their classroom. Leon Hady, former headteacher and founder of Guide Education explains that when kids are learning from home, children are being registered as 'in school', "in exactly the same way as if it were a school day. It's basically just a form of off-site learning." So the school will also be aware if a child doesn't appear for homeschooling lessons via the video link. Repeated absences will likely require an explantation for the parent or guardian.

But aside from this, the government have also told parents and carers to 'just do your best'.

"No one expects parents to act as teacher, or to provide the activities and feedback that a school or nursery would," the government advice states. "Parents and carers should do their best to help children and support their learning while dealing with other demands."

What to do if you're struggling with homeschooling

Homeschooling isn't the perfect fit for everyone. Psychologist and therapist Dr Kalanit Ben-Ari says: "Structure and routine is important, but this will look different for children of different ages.

"For young children, it can be very challenging for them to sit in front of a computer, so it might be more beneficial for them to move their body and to explore other activities at home. For older children, combining online learning with movement and off-screen learning is likely to benefit them more."

Dr Kalanit also explains that long period of time looking at screen won't work for all children, "There are also children of all ages who find interaction via screens very challenging, which can in turn induce more anxiety." So, getting kids outside to play where possible or giving them breaks from their screen is important.

If you're just looking to get kids moving and give them some structure to their day, Joe Wicks' workouts for kids are back every morning at the moment. We've also got over 60 different ideas of things to do with kids during lockdown, in case you're looking for inspiration.

Keeping this anxiety low is the essential in these challenging times, as parent and registered doctor, Dr Xand Van Tulleken, told The One Show this month. He said, "I would say to any parents who are facing this though, you're not responsible for replacing an entire school. Like you did some stuff on Egypt, that's amazing! You spent time with your kids today, that's good. You don't have to feel guilty that you can't replace every teacher in a school plus all the other activities.

https://www.facebook.com/bbctheoneshow/posts/10158731214647696

"It's enough to show a bit of love and patience and kindness. Teach them to do some household chores, spend time with them. They can catch up their education, this is not going to permanently harm children.

"The main thing is to keep their anxiety levels down, and guide them through it as a family. And don't feel the guilt and the pressure we're putting on ourselves will not be good for anybody. That's how I'm comforting myself as a parent!"

How to get help with homeschooling

As well as reaching out directly to your children's teachers, who will be able to provide support and guidance, there are plenty of free educational resources for homeschooling online that you can turn to, to help you out.

Here are a few to take a look at:

The Oak National Academy

This is one of the government's biggest funding projects for homeschooling during the lockdown. It's an online learning platform designed by teachers, with almost 10,000 lessons on subjects across the whole school curriculum right up to year 11. With only so many hours in the day, teachers have also been using it to set lesson plans and give tutorials so parents can be reassured they're on the right track with this one.

Resources are free and completely online. Some of the best ones include an online classroom for all age groups with a recommended timetable of six lessons a day, including all the essentials like English, maths and languages, to help kids retain some structure in their day.

Each of the lessons are formulated into videos of up to 45 minutes to explain key principles of curriculum subjects. There's also a specialist classroom to help pupils with individual support needs.

No need to set up an account or give any details with this one, just click and go!

BBC Bitesize

Bitesize has also re-launched their BBC educational programmes and lockdown learning timetable. The service airs every day, with a famous face taking classes on a fundamental topic of the curriculum in digestible chunks, suitable for differing levels of education.

For example, Professor Brian Cox is touring secondary school students through the solar system on BBC 2 at 2pm from January 11, after a curriculum-based lesson in biology the hour before. While in the morning, primary school pupils will be treated to a 10 minute quick P.E session with none other than Marcus Rashford, an English lesson by Geri Horner and a food science class by Heston Blumenthal.

The timetable for these lessons and more information can be found on the BBC Bitesize website, all totally for free.

Duolingo

Duolingo has become one of the best free homeschooling apps in lockdown. It's always been a hit when the time for New Year's resolutions roll around with millions of people signing up to either learn a new language from scratch or practice what they already know. But with fun graphics, special lessons for children and a huge choice of languages available, it's a great way for beginner to intermediate language learners to stay up to date during the lockdown.

The desktop site is a good way to explore all the features Duolingo has to offer (and keep kids off their phones!) but the app is the real winning part of the service. Starting by figuring out how far advanced someone is in the language, it then helps them to improve on their speaking, listening and writing skills by quizzing them on words and phrases, as well as introducing new ones.

Quick and bitesized, Duolingo is especially great for those who maybe need a little more motivation to get into languages but the best part is, it's totally free! The app and the desktop site doesn't cost anything to access, so it's worth giving it a go.

Guide Education

Anyone can access Guide Education's Tuition Kit, suitable for anyone revising for GCSEs in English, maths and science across all exam boards. There are hundreds of materials on the site created by qualified teachers, so there's no requirement for extra paid-for tuition or textbooks.

All that's required is a sign up and then it's completely free!

Parents can also access the material to help things along with homeschooling by organising all the different things they have to study and creating a timetable for them throughout the day. For anyone struggling with homeschooling right now as well, Guide Education also has a range of videos on their YouTube channel about everything from choosing a good study space to time management.

Khan Academy

Students looking to focus on sciences and maths-based subjects should head over to Khan Academy, self-described as a "nonprofit with the mission to provide a free, world-class education for anyone, anywhere." Although it is US-based, there's plenty of content on there that crosses over into the UK curriculum with high-quality lessons, taught in broken-down ways so that everyone of all different age groups can follow along.

The lessons can all be accessed for free on the Khan Academy website, but we recommend signing up for a free account so that students don't lose track of their progress.

It's especially a winner for older children looking for more help with maths and science coming up to GCSE level and even beyond.

Whether you can get a broadband discount for homeschooling has been an issue weighing on a lot of families' minds recently.

The UK is in the midst of lockdown 3.0, schools closed and exams are cancelled for 2021. Many families and carers are rediscovering how to work from home and homeschool at the same time, with expenses to keep everything moving continuing to pile up.

There are also over 880,000 children in the UK who live in a home where there is no broadband and only a limited mobile internet connection. Reliable internet access is the difference between being able to learn from home or missing out on education whilst the schools are shut. 

The idea of free or subsidised internet isn't a new one. However, there's never been a more important time for all children to have access to the internet for their education.

Can you get a broadband discount for homeschooling?

There's no blanket broadband discount for those homeschooling at the moment, but there are different schemes in place to help families access the internet for free or with a discount for their kids' education during lockdown.

Those in primary and secondary school who are struggling with internet access can apply for a free increase of mobile data through the new ‘Get Help with Tech’ scheme set up by the Department of Education.

The scheme also provides 4G wireless routers to those who need them. This means that families with more than one child can ensure that all kids have equal access to the internet - as it wouldn’t just be restricted to one device with one SIM full of data. 

Aside from government-funded schemes, BT have also announced their own scheme to get families online in lockdown. This includes offering free and unlimited mobile data to EE and BT customers, as well as free WIFI vouchers for schools and charity partners, which would give families access to the internet from 5.5 million UK hotspots. 

The company are also independently removing all the data charges for popular education websites, specifically to help families and carers supporting children with no internet access. 

Who is eligible for the Get Help with Tech scheme?

At the moment, disadvantaged children in years 3 up to year 11 are eligible for free increases to their mobile data. You must also be a customer at one of the below providers and the offer differs between networks:

• EE - receive 20 GB of free data per month until July 2021
• BT - receive 20 GB of free data per month
• O2 - 40GB of data per month
• Sky Mobile
• SMARTY
• Tesco Mobile 
• Three - unlimited data every month
• Virgin Mobile 
• Vodafone - 350,000 free data SIMS have been made available

As well as this, any child who doesn’t have access to a fixed-line broadband at home, can’t afford additional data for devices in general or is experiencing disruption to face-to-face learning could be entitled to the extra support given by the 4G wireless routers. 

But unfortunately, parents or children can’t just apply to the scheme themselves. 

How to apply for the government’s scheme

Families and carers should contact the child’s school who can make a request on their behalf for the increase in data, a 4G wireless router or even hardware, as the government has provided a succession of free laptops for children since last year.

“Parents, carers and pupils cannot apply for digital devices or internet access through this scheme themselves. They should contact their school to discuss requirements for accessing remote education.” A statement from the Department of Education reads. 

This is because the government has given schools and local authorities these devices first hand via the Get Help with Tech website, in addition to the other devices and help offered to schools, trusts and local authorities during the summer last year. 

To get things moving, schools will have to provide the name on the account of the child’s mobile provider, their phone number and the network that they’re on. 

It sounds like a day to celebrate the socks long lost to the washing machine but Odd Socks Day 2020 means a whole lot more than that.

For many people in the UK, Odd Socks Day 2020 marks an important occasion for awareness in schools as it teaches children how to spot the signs of bullying, but it's also a special day in the workplace as organisers work to raise money and gather resources. 

Research from the Anti-Bullying Alliance has revealed that 1 in 4 children reported they were being bullied a lot or "always" in 2016. While the risk of bullying decreased the older children became, those children who were bullied at school enjoyed going less and had poorer relationships with their teachers. They were also less likely to feel safe going to school or included in their class.

So what exactly is this unique day all about and how does it help? 

What is Odd Socks Day?

Odd Socks Day is the first day of anti-bullying week, where both adults and children are encouraged to wear odd socks to school or work to raise awareness of bullying. 

Although the Anti-Bullying Alliance, the charity who invented the day, does suggest a £1 donation from all those who take part, it’s not essential. Ultimately, they want the day to be fun for everyone and to give people a chance to express themselves and what makes them unique. 

The theme this year is United Against Bullying and the charity have worked with over 400 people, a mixture of school staff and young people to make it happen. Their manifesto for 2020 is: “This year, more than ever, we’ve witnessed the positive power that society can have when we come together to tackle a common challenge. 

“Anti-Bullying Week is no different. Bullying has a long lasting effect on those who experience and witness it. But by channelling our collective power, through shared efforts and shared ambitions, we can reduce bullying together. From parents and carers, to teachers and politicians, to children and young people, we all have a part to play in coming together to make a difference. 

“We’re all a piece in the puzzle, and together, we’re united against bullying.”

It's a chance for schools to take the time to educate children about everything from cyberbullying to recognising that the differences in others are positive, rather than negative. Each campaign has been a huge success as it reached over 7 million young people last year in 75% of all schools around the country and over 5 million children alone are expected to take part in Odd Socks Day 2020.

When is Odd Socks Day 2020?

Odd socks day is technically Monday November 16, but events run throughout the week and it will depend on the school’s timetable whether they have Odd Socks Day on the first day of Anti-Bullying Week. 

The awareness week runs from Monday all the way through to Friday November 16, so there’s plenty of time to dig around in the sock drawer for some odd pairings. 

How to take part in Odd Socks Day 2020

The best way to take part in Odd Socks Day 2020 is through activities and donations. Here are some of the ways to get stuck in: 

• Wear odd socks to school or work
• Donate £1 to the charity through their Virgin Money donation page
• Share a photo of your odd socks online using the hastag, #oddsocksday and #anti-bullyingweek and tag @andyoddsock and @abaonline 

Schools will also have their own range of activities planned, such as an assembly to raise awareness about all the different (and new) forms of bullying that take place, workshops in classes with activity packs and even competitions for the best odd socks around. 

It’s a yearly event so if you’ve missed Odd Socks Day 2020, don’t worry as it will be back next year with a new manifesto and another chance to wear the weirdest socks in your drawer. 

Signs of bullying can be hard to spot. Anti-bullying week 2020 is this week and it's a chance for schools and parents to talk to kids about bullying and better understand what the signs of bullying are.

This year the goal of Anti-Bullying Week is to emphasise the collective responsibility required to stop bullying. The theme for Anti-Bullying Week 2020 is "United Against Bullying".

A study by Ditch the Label found that three out of four young people said that bullying had affected their mental health, with nearly half becoming depressed as a result of the experience.

The charity asked 2,300 young people, aged between 12 and 20, about their experiences of bullying. The research found one in five young people in the UK were bullied in the past 12 months, and one in 10 stated bullying happened on a daily occurrence. A third of the respondents who had experience bullying said they experienced suicidal thoughts and 41% felt anxious as a result.

Of the respondents, 62% experienced bullying by a school classmate, and 37% by someone who attended their school but they did not know. Sadly, nearly two-thirds of respondents believed others' attitudes towards their appearance was the cause of bullying.

The most common was verbal, followed by social exclusion, intimidation and physical bullying. Despite the upsurge in social media usage, cyberbullying was found to be the least common form of bullying.

In light of the "worrying" data, children's commissioner for England, Anne Longfield said, "more needs to be done". She continued, "It is worrying that one in five children are experiencing some form of bullying. More needs to be done at home and in schools to help those who are the victims of bullying and also, crucially, to prevent children from bullying in the first place."

But how can we spot the signs of bullying quickly? And what can we do to help our children?

Signs of bullying to look out for

• They come home from school with cuts, bruises or torn clothing.
• They're hungry, or have walked home, having had bus fare or lunch money stolen.
• They're unusually moody or withdrawn, or are picking fights at home.
• Their work and grades at school start to slide.
• They're reluctant to go to school, insist on being driven there, or pretend to be unwell.
• Their eating habits change, or they aren't sleeping well.

What to do if you spot signs of bullying or your child is being bullied

The Anti-Bullying Alliance suggests parents communicate the following messages to children who are dealing with bullying:

• It doesn’t matter what colour hair you have; what trainers you are wearing; how you speak; how you walk; how you talk – it is not your fault if you get bullied.  We are all different in some way and that’s what makes us amazing.
• Whether you are a boy or a girl, old or young, big or small – bullying makes you feel rubbish and it’s okay to be upset about it. The important thing is that you tell someone about it.
• If you feel you can, talk to a teacher you trust or a family member.  If you don’t want to do that you can always call Childline 0800 11 11 or visit www.childline.org.uk.
• Write down what happened, when it happened, and who was involved. If the bullying is online, keep the evidence – save or copy any photos, videos, texts, e-mails or posts.
• It can be tempting if you are being bullied to take revenge – for example to send a horrible message back to someone; to try and embarrass and hurt the other person, or to fight back. This is not a good idea – you might end up getting in trouble or get yourself even more hurt.
• Think about other ways you can respond to bullying. For example, practice saying ‘I don’t like it when you say that/do that – Stop.' Think about other people who can help you if you are being bullied – this could be other classmates, or a teacher.
• Only spend time with people who make you feel good about yourself. If someone constantly puts you down they are not a real friend/ boyfriend/ girlfriend - and not worth your time.
• Be kind to yourself, and do things that make you feel good, relax and make new friends. You might make music; write lyrics; draw cartoons; dance; act or join a sports club. This is your life so make sure it’s the best life possible – don’t let anyone bring you down.
• Remember to respect other people! Just because someone is different to you and your friends – that doesn’t mean you are better than them or have a right to make them feel bad. If you mess up, say sorry. You don’t have to be friends with everyone – but you should always make it clear that you don’t like it when people bully others, and stick up for people who are having a hard time.

As mentioned above, some experts suggest showing your child how to face bullies with confidence. This can include teaching them to project a positive, assertive attitude and walk with confidence, while moving away from people who they think might cause trouble.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CsK3cdw6b8E

It can also be useful to role play situations to help your child know what to do if they are approached by a bully. Give them encouraging, positive feedback to help their confidence, and offer tips on how to ignore anyone being mean to them and who to tell if they do have a problem.

Having regular conversations about your child’s mental health, feelings and emotions in a relaxed environment can help parents provide support to their children. Read our guide on how to talk to children about mental health if you have concerns.

Expert tips to beat bullying for anti-bullying week 2020

Sue Ormersher, Senior Press Officer from Family Lives, shares her advice on how to stop bullies below.

If, after reading the below, you're still worried about your child then don't hesitate to contact Bullying UK, part of Family Lives. They provide support and advice for families experiencing all sorts of bullying problems.

• Keep calm: your first reaction may be anger, but you can't let your child see this. They need to be reassured and may be less likely to trust you again, if you get irate.
• Talk to your child: let them know you're there for them and that you love them, and don't pressurise them into talking to you.
• Suggest someone else they can talk to: not all kids want to talk to parents, so think of someone else they trust, such as a grandparent, other relative or close friend.
• Reassure them: tell your child that it's not their fault and they shouldn't feel ashamed that they're being targeted.
• Raise their self-esteem: bullying hits a child's self-confidence, so praise and encourage them at every possible opportunity.

Dealing with the source of the bullying problem

1. Have a quiet chat to your child's teacher - either a quick word on the phone or go in before school.

2. Many schools are very good when it comes to bullying and they'll do a special assembly about it to highlight the problem.

3. If you don't get anywhere with the school, ask to see a copy of their anti-bullying policy. All schools are legally required to have one.

4. Then ask to see the headteacher and keep a record of any meetings you have. If you're still not happy, try contacting the Chairman of Governors or your Local Educational Authority.

5. Make a list of all the questions you want to ask and take someone along with you, so you don't miss anything that they may say.

If you're worried bullying may be affecting your child's mental health speak to your GP, YoungMinds mental health charity or The Anti-Bullying Alliance. If you child is being bullied and are in need of support, they can contact the National Bullying Helpline on 08452255787. 

Last week, MPs chose to vote against free school meals being extended to children up until Easter 2021.

Marcus Rashford started his campaign during the pandemic to try and ensure children entitled to free school meals would continue to receive financial support during the school holidays. Thanks to his efforts, which generated a swell of public support, the government extended the scheme over the Easter and summer holidays earlier this year. 

With over 2 million children now thought to be relying on state-funded school meals for sustenance during the school day and the question being raised over whether schools will close as coronavirus cases rise, MPs voted on whether to extend the scheme into the next school holiday. The Labour Party’s motion to extend the scheme was shot down by 322 to 261 votes, with only five Conservative MPs voting for the opposition’s motion. 

It came as the Food Foundation estimated that a further 900,000 children in England may have needed free school meals since the beginning of the pandemic. This was in addition to the 1.3 million children who were given free school meals last year, which solely works out to about 15% of all state-educated children.

Since the outcome was released, debate has raged on social media. Some people demanding to know why MPs voted against the motion and are accusing them of letting children go hungry, especially as this isn't the first time that the government has tried to refuse the extension of the free school meals scheme. In the past, celebrities like Piers Morgan have criticised Boris Johnson over the decision. 

So why did MPs vote against free school meals? Find out how yours voted and what you can do to help those in need this winter. 

Why did MPs vote against free school meals?

There are many theories as to why MPs voted against extending free school meals into the half-term, including the idea that the government ‘misunderstood’ how the country felt about the issue. Sir Bernard Jenkin, a senior Tory politician, who made the comment has joined other Conservative MPs in calling for a retraction of the vote. 

Leeds Pudsey MP and Conservative Deputy Chief Whip Stuart Andrew was another MP who voted against extending the scheme. He told the Yorkshire Post that ‘it was a non-binding politically motivated opposition day debate’ that ‘would not have delivered free school meals’. 

Other MPs who voted against motion include Ben Bradley, the Conservative MP for Mansfield, who tweeted a string of reasons for his vote. “At one school in Mansfield 75% of kids have a social worker, 25% of parents are illiterate. Their estate is the centre of the area’s crime. One kid lives in a crack den, another in a brothel. These are the kids that most need our help, extending FSM [free school meals] doesn’t reach these kids.”

The MP deleted the tweets soon afterwards and said that they had been taken out of context. 

Danny Kruger, the MP for Devizes in Wiltshire, wrote in the Gazette & Herald on Sunday October 25 that his vote was rooted in the problem that “generous, unconditional, universal benefit entitlements trap people in dependency on the state and rightly enrage people who are working hard for themselves.”

The Northern Ireland secretary also defended the decision and told The Andrew Marr Show his reasons for the vote. “In the holidays, what we’ve put in place actually is not just the uplift in universal credit, because obviously the schools are closed, so it’s about making sure the welfare system can cover and support what people need.” Brandon Lewis said, “So we’ve put the uplift into universal credit, around just over £1,000 a year, but also very specifically we’ve put £63m into local authorities to support and help people in hardship … and a number of local authorities are using it to do exactly that.”

Brandon Lewis joins other MPs who say that alternative support, particularly the £63million investment in local authorities, is the way to help those in need rather than free school meals. Leeds Elmet and Rothwell MP Alec Shelbrooke is one of them, as he told the Yorkshire Evening Post, “I believe families are best supported by giving more money through the welfare system instead of adding additional administrative burden to schools”.

But the outrage seen on social media and in person also comes from the fact that MPs are offered subsidies for their own food and expenses - coming in at £25 per day. A thread on Twitter has outlined some of the expenses from MPs who voted against offering free school meals. It includes over £700 spent on complimentary wine by the former Chancellor of the Exchequer, Sajid Javid, £3000 offered to one MP for living costs and £2850 given to another for rent assistance. 

How did my MP vote for free school meals?

If you want to find out how your MP voted in the free school meals motion, then you can find out using this handy constituency checker. Just type in the name of your area or if you know it, the name of your local MP. 

The motion, which was turned down by 61 votes, following pleas made by the England and Manchester United striker, Marcus Rashford. After the vote was announced, Marcus took to Twitter to say aside from the politics and "all the noise", children would be going to bed “not only hungry but feeling like they do not matter”. 

When did free school meals start?

The first free school meals were given out in 1879 by the city of Manchester, soon after compulsory education was introduced and it was noted that thousands of children were going to school hungry. In 1906, the Education Act officially allowed local authorities to offer free school meals.

But very few actually did and even less took up the offer in 1921, when criteria was set out to only allow particular children to have free school meals. In 1936, a survey was carried out in 26 local education authorities where there was above 25% unemployment. It turned out that less than 15,000 children were being given the free school meals, despite there being half a million eligible children. 

In 1944, laws were finally passed that forced all local authorities to provide free school meals for children in need. This included free milk in all schools two years later, which offered essential nutrition to thousands of children. From 1947, the cost of free school meals was taken on by the government. 

This means that free school meals have been offered for over 110 years. The outcome of the vote doesn’t mean that free school meals won’t be offered anymore though but following the extension of the scheme into the Easter and summer holidays during the coronavirus pandemic, the government has decided to not extend them again to the half-term up until Easter 2021. 

Which councils are offering free school meals during half term?

While MPs did vote against free school meals, many councils have independently stepped in to assist residents who would otherwise struggle during the holidays. For a full list, have a look here. It includes 51 councils such as Manchester and Liverpool, which are currently in tier 3 lockdown restrictions. 

Various London councils including Kensington and Chelsea and Lambeth have also said that they’ll offer free school meals during the half-term period. Upon hearing the news, Marcus Rashford said that he “could not be more proud to call myself British” as multiple Tory-run councils are included in those who agreed to continue the system. 

This is what three councils had to say….

Sefton council free school meals

Sefton council have confirmed that they are offering free school meals during the half-term period and have outlined how families can apply for them on their website. They added, “We will also continue to provide additional funding and support to our local voluntary sector partners, including the local food banks who are well stocked to enable them to help some of Sefton’s hardest hit families during these difficult times.” 

Bury council free school meals

Bury have also confirmed that they’ll offer free school meals with vouchers. On their website they’ve said, “We are working hard to get vouchers to those on free school meals as quickly as we can and are finalising our plans to get the vouchers to you.” 

Along with this, they’ve outlined the criteria that needs to be met to have the vouchers and how to apply for them. 

Havering council free school meals

Much like Bury and Sefton, Havering have confirmed on their website that they are offering free school meals over the holiday. They’ve said, “If you currently get a free school meal you will be eligible for a support payment during the term break. The payment is £15 per each eligible child per week and will be paid into your bank account so please have your bank details ready when applying.”

Restaurants offering free school meals around the UK

Restaurants are joining councils, not for the first time, to fill the gap in requirement and many from all across England are offering to feed children during the half term. This now includes major chains like McDonalds, Vietnamese street food chain Pho, Huffkins bakery, Big Smoke breweries and The Lebanese Bakery - among many others. 

Marcus Rashford has shared a map of all the establishments across the country that are offering to feed children over the holiday. You can view it here. He has also retweeted restaurants on Twitter who have shared his hashtag #ENDCHILDFOODPOVERTY and highlighted restaurants who have pledged to help out. 

How you can help with free school meals

The vote has made plenty of people angry and wanting to do something about it. If that’s you and you want to help children currently unable to have free school meals over the half-term, there’s plenty that you can do. 

• Sign the petition: Labour has put pressure back on the government to U-turn over the vote, but almost 900,000 people have called for the same via a petition begun by Marcus Rashford. It calls for more access to free school meals and meals to be offered during the school holidays. You can sign it here. 
• Donate to a food bank: Many families will be struggling at the moment, so find out where your nearest food bank is to donate. Whether it’s cash or food, visit their website to find out what they’ve most in need of at the moment. 
• Donate to FareShare: By donating to FareShare, you’re helping food banks and other community groups get the help they need, with every £1 providing four meals for children in need. 

The debate is ongoing, however, so we could see the MPs vote against free school meals reversed in the coming days or weeks. Especially as many MPs, both from Labour and the Conservatives, have urged the government to re-think their decision.

For most of us, relationships and sex education at school was a couple of awkward afternoons of educational videos, Q&As and promising to not talk about any of it in the playground afterwards - if we ever had any at all.

But now, following changes to relationships and sex education (RSE) made by the government in April last year, new topics have been added to the curriculum and will be taught in all schools from September onwards.

The new programme, which is mandatory for both primary and secondary school pupils as they return to school after the lockdown, will include important topics such as diverse family structures, how to set personal boundaries from a young age and how to develop healthy relationships in all their forms. It has been purposefully adapted to suit the needs of young people in a world that’s changed a whole lot since the material was last looked at. 

A review of the curriculum took place most recently in 2008 and RSE was only made mandatory in schools in 2015, meaning that what is taught and the way that it’s spoken about has long been due an upgrade. For example, today over a third of children aged 8 to 11 years old have their own smartphone and 20 per cent already use social media, which will be influencing how they see relationships and learn about sex. Yet the idea of consuming social media to the extent that we do was completely foreign when the curriculum was first put together over ten years ago. 

Importantly, it's also the first set of changes to the curriculum since the Equality Act (2010) was put in place and Section 28, a famous part of the 1988 act which prohibited the "promotion" of homosexuality by the government, was repealed in England. But while social attitudes have changed, a lack of education has left a gap in the understanding of diverse relationships and identities for many young people. This is especially obvious, for instance, as homophobic bullying has decreased in schools over the years but derogatory language is still prevalent, and only three in five pupils learn anything about LGBT issues in the classroom.

In all cases, this leaves many students across the country at the mercy of what they learn about online and influenced largely by their peers, neither of which are famous for giving out reliable information. Now, schools will be required to teach children more widely about family dynamics, friendships and other kinds of relationships - both online and off - from a young age, with the more nitty-gritty coming into the curriculum in secondary school. Children will also learn about how to recognise and challenge unhealthy behaviour, which will them lead into more contextual discussions later on. 

But with some controversy surrounding the new changes, which led to protests outside schools in the Midlands last year and criticism online, what will children in primary and secondary school learn about in relationships and sex education from this year?

Changes to relationships and sex education for 2020

What will be taught in primary schools?

As the government guidance for primary schools stipulates, "The focus in primary school should be on teaching the fundamental building blocks and characteristics of positive relationships, with particular reference to friendships, family relationships, and relationships with other children and with adults.

"This starts with pupils being taught about what a relationship is, what friendship is, what family means and who the people are who can support them. From the beginning of primary school, building on early education, pupils should be taught how to take turns, how to treat each other with kindness, consideration and respect, the importance of honesty and truthfulness, permission seeking and giving, and the concept of personal privacy."

The guidance also emphasises that this content will be taught in an appropriate way, so instead of explicitly using vocabulary like 'consent', which will be explained when they are older, the idea of personal boundaries is taught "in terms of understanding one’s own and others’ boundaries in play, in negotiations about space, toys, books, resources and so on."

On family structures, teachers are encouraged to use their own sensitivity and judgement but to emphasise that family of many forms can offer a nurturing environment for children. This means that all children will learn that single parent families, LGBT parents, families headed by grandparents, adoptive parents, foster parents and carers among other structures are equally valid structures support and to stigmatise any of them is wrong.

All content is underlined by the idea that pupils should be able to have a strong understanding of the features of relationships - of all kinds - that are likely to lead to "happiness and security". This in turn, the government hopes, will help children to "recognise any less positive relationships when they encounter them."

Other topics on the curriculum for children in primary school include: 

• Online safety and appropriate online behaviour: How information and data is shared and used, such as understanding that many websites are businesses and how sites use information provided in ways that they might not expect.
• Developing positive character traits: such as the belief that they can achieve, persevere with tasks, work towards a long-term reward and endeavour despite setbacks. Pupils will also be taught the importance of self-respect and worth.
• Positive mental and emotional wellbeing.
• How to recognise and report abuse: In a primary school setting this is done through focusing on boundaries and privacy, ensuring young people understand that they have rights over their own bodies.
• How stable, caring relationships, which may be of different types, are at the heart of happy families, and are important for children’s security as they grow up.

What about sex education in primary schools?

This is where the guidance hasn't changed all that much. Ultimately, schools are required to teach elements of puberty and basic anatomy, which is often led with discussions around plant and animal reproduction in science classes. But essentially, "It will be for primary schools to determine whether they need to cover any additional content on sex education to meet the needs of their pupils. Many primary schools already choose to teach some aspects of sex education and will continue to do so, although it is not a requirement."

Some schools do teach elements of the sex education curriculum in primary school and the material used is entirely up to the judgement of the school, based around pupils' requirements, age and religious backgrounds. To negotiate this, teachers have been encouraged to chat with parents and carers about what they believe is appropriate and offer a full run-down on what will be taught to students.

Naturally due to the information that children are consuming at an ever-younger age due to the internet and peer discussions, the government advises, “It is important that the transition phase before moving to secondary school supports pupils’ ongoing emotional and physical development effectively. The Department [of Education] continues to recommend therefore that all primary schools should have a sex education programme tailored to the age and the physical and emotional maturity of the pupils.”

What will be taught in secondary schools?

In secondary school as children get older and become aware of changes to their own bodies, the education around relationships and sex changes too. In response to this, the government guidance suggests that the relationships and sex education should "give young people the information they need to help them develop healthy, nurturing relationships of all kinds, not just intimate relationships."

Building on what they have learnt in primary school, "It should enable them to know what a healthy relationship looks like and what makes a good friend, a good colleague and a successful marriage or other type of committed relationship. It should also cover contraception, developing intimate relationships and resisting pressure to have sex (and not applying pressure). It should teach what is acceptable and unacceptable behaviour in relationships.

"This will help pupils understand the positive effects that good relationships have on their mental wellbeing, identify when relationships are not right and understand how such situations can be managed."

Ultimately in secondary school, although many teens don't engage in romantic or sexual relationships, there will be some who do and others who have growing curiosity the subject. It's only fair that their questions are answered with honest, explicit and correct advice, not to encourage early sexual experimentation but to "teach young people to understand human sexuality and to respect themselves and others."

READ MORE: How and when to start talking to children about racism

But by discussing sexuality in this way, teens will be given knowledge and awareness on how they are becoming more mature, build their self-esteem and confidence in this issues so they can make their own decisions if or when they are ready, and understand the reasons why delaying sexual activity might be something they want to do. As the government has said, "Effective RSE also supports people, throughout life, to develop safe, fulfilling and healthy sexual relationships, at the appropriate time."

This in turn means that young people won't just be equipped with the knowledge to get through their early to late teen years, but they will be able to make informed and healthy choices as they grow older as well, having had an early foundation in the topic.

In addition, on delivering education around these issues, teachers are encouraged to speak in a non-judgemental way and allow questions which otherwise might be answered by the internet or their friends, so making sure that teens have the essential information around issues that are directly impacting them. "Many teachers use approaches such as distancing techniques," the government says, such as "setting ground rules with the class to help manage discussion and using question boxes to allow pupils to raise issues anonymously."

Why are the changes in relationships and sex education necessary?

Teachers, pupils and parents alike have said that these changes to relationships and sex education have been required for a while. Recognising publicly that not every child grows up or will go on to have a traditional, nuclear family means that children will be taught that some situations or personal identities differ from their own but everyone deserves to be treated with the same respect and have the same opportunities in life.

This not only aids children's understanding of other children different to them, for whatever reason, but will have a massive impact on the self esteem and confidence of those children who understand that their family situation or feeling are different to others.

“Children deserve to see themselves represented in what is taught." Kitty Winfield, a teacher to year three children in London, says, "Not only will children feel they belong and are accepted but it helps educate children of other family structures.” 

She says that for instance, according to recent statistics, 42 per cent of marriages in England and Wales end in divorce. “This could mean that almost half a class come from a family of divorce, [so] not only should children be educated that their feelings around this issue are valid but it’s also not an uncommon situation. 

“Schools prepare children for life. Knowing how people are different will prepare them to embrace and celebrate the differences in our society.” 

But that's not the only reason these changes to relationships and sex education are necessary.

"None of us are given education around how to handle relationships, yet it’s one of the most important things in life and one of the things that can cause the most happiness, the most unhappiness and the most stress." Carole-Ann Rice, the UK's leading life coach says. "It’s about children learning boundaries with others, what’s acceptable and what’s not.

"People pleasing, when you remove your own needs because you put other people’s needs before you, can actually lead to a lot of low self-esteem and being walked all over by other people. So to learn and have self-awareness at an early age I can only see to be absolutely brilliant. None of us, no generation, ever has been taught these basic human rules."

By offering detailed and accurate information surrounding relationships and sex, young people are not only more prepared for interactions with friends, family and potential intimate relationships later in life. Giving young people the knowledge and confidence to make their own decisions will ensure that they're prepared to for whatever new relationships and situations unfold in the next couple of years, as they head into the 'real world' of higher education and the workplace.

How can parents support their children's learning?

While it might not be a conversation parents want to have with their children, learning about the birds and the bees is all part of life. As children come home from school, they’re bound to have questions. 

The best way to handle these is to be open and sensitive to them, Carole-Ann tells GoodtoKnow. “As much as we want to, we can’t protect our children forever. Certain subjects will come up and instead of brushing it away and saying, ‘we don’t talk about that’, sit down and make it non-threatening and have a sensible chat with them about it.” 

The best way to do this is to make it a safe environment for them, she says, and try the following...

• Don’t sit directly opposite them: “Sit next to them on a sofa, in the car side-by-side or in a cafe side-by-side. That makes it less confrontational.” 
• Ask them what they are thinking: “If the child has brought this [topic] up, say to them ‘what do you want to know about it?’, ‘what’s worrying you?’. Ask them what they are thinking.” 
• Allow an open door for them to come back and discuss: “Remind them that you’re always there to listen,” Carole-Ann advises. 

“To not do it is to not prepare your child. To just say, ‘I’m not ready for this’ doesn’t mean that your child is exempt.” Carole-Ann says, “It becomes a no-go area and the child will think ‘I can’t come to mum or dad about this now because they don’t want to talk about it. It may mean that there’s a loss of innocence but by hiding it, you’re not dealing with it.”

To help all these conversations along, there are always sex education books for children of varying ages, that they can use to find answers to some of the more awkward questions.

Can parents opt their children out of relationships and sex education (RSE)?

While the government recognises that families are the primary teachers of these topics, the relationships and sex education changes aim to "complement and reinforce this role" with schools building on what pupils learn at home, to deliver a well-rounded education.

This means that on the whole, parents and carers have to roll with the guidance on RSE as it's part of the national curriculum and as such, will be taught in all schools by summer next year at the latest. The only exception to this, however, is for parents of primary school-aged children who don't wish for them to take part in any sex education lessons just yet. They have the right to remove them from this, but all children have to take part in relationships education.

Health education, including topics such as puberty, is also mandatory and will be taught as part of the programme in all state-funded schools. 

While it may be a big jump forward for some families, it's important to be aware that these lessons are about preparing children for the outside world and managing expectation of life, above all else. As Carol-Ann says, “I think that’s one of the things that causes the most problems in relationships - what you expect of someone and who they really are and so, it’s about having healthy expectations of others. This [RSE education] could help them with that. 

“And it’s also for them to learn about developing their own lives - it’s not all about relationships, it’s about enjoying your own life as well.” 

Along with learning numbers and the alphabet, learning how to tell the time is up there with some of the pivotal things that parents need to start teaching young children from an early age.

But luckily, it’s easy enough to do and there are plenty of learning tools out there to help with teaching kids to tell time. Before they get their first watch, you can use games and learning devices to help them along their way to recognising numbers as the first step, before going into harder territory like minutes and seconds.

It doesn’t all need to come at once though. Teaching kids to tell time is a process that actually happens over a number of years and is normally supported by teachers in schools and even at nursery. This is what you need to know to help teach kids how to tell the time…

When should children learn to tell the time?

Children are taught to properly tell the time when they start school aged four or five years old. However, it’s thought that children as young as two can count to ten so beginning to teach kids how to tell the time before then is a good idea. 

Childcare Development Manager for nursery group Storal Learning, Hannah Tranah says, “Learning to tell the time is a long process, roughly developed between the ages of three and eight. By age three to four children should be able to order a sequence of events and to measure short periods of time in simple ways.” 

According to the National Maths Curriculum, children are officially taught to tell the time from five or six years old when they enter year one and key stage one.

Year one: Children are taught to tell the time on the hour and half past the hour, and to draw hands on a clock face to show these times. 

Year two: Although year two is also key stage one, now, children are taught to tell the time in five minutes, including quarter past/to the hour and draw the hands on the clock representing these times. 

Children are also expected to know the number of minutes in one hour and the number of hours in one day.

Year three: In key stage two, children will be expected to know the time and write the time from an analogue clock, use Roman numerals from I to XII, as well as the 12-hour and 24-hour clocks. 

Young children will also need to be able to estimate and read the time with accuracy to the nearest minute, record the time, use vocabulary like morning, afternoon, noon and midnight, along with O’clock, a.m and p.m. 

Year four: This is the second year of key stage two and the last year that the national curriculum requires schools to teach children to tell the time. At the end of year four, children will be expected to be able to read, write and record analogue and digital time, and convert 12 hour to 24 hour clocks. 

READ MORE: Child development stages 1-5 years old

What's the easiest way to teach children to tell the time?

Hannah says that learning to tell the time can be tricky for young children as it requires concentrating on two sets of different ideas at the same time. “As such, learning to tell the time puts real strain on a child’s working memory. It’s therefore important to start teaching children early through practical and fun techniques.” 

These are Hannah’s tips for the easiest way to teach children how to tell the time:

1) Use time in everyday life

“Before your child will be able to tell the time on a clock, they need to grasp the concept of time and how it relates to their own experiences.” Hannah tells GoodtoKnow, “It’s important to connect time into their daily routine through simple phrases such as, ‘It’s six o’clock - time for your dinner’.”

She adds, “Likewise, talk about what you do regularly at different times of the day. Compare and contrast weekdays and weekends and use time vocabulary such as today, now, yesterday and afterwards.” 

2) Make them comfortable with counting

The next step is to make sure that your children are comfortable with the numbers they will be using to tell the time. As Hannah tells us, “You will need to ensure your child to confident with counting from one to 60 before introducing them to a clock.

“This can be done by counting in everyday life, such as when climbing stairs.” 

3) Play fun games

The way to teaching kids anything is through fun and there are plenty of games and educational toys out there to help you out. 

“Once your child is confident with numbers,” Hannah says, “You can start to increase their awareness of time with simple activities and games such as ‘What’s the time mister wolf?’” 

Scroll down for some of our favourites. 

Which clock is best to help children learn to tell the time?

“It’s best to get your child familiar with an analogue clock first, before introducing digital.” Hannah suggests, “Start by putting a clock in your child’s bedroom and referring to it in everyday life.” 

You can also get creative with your clocks and do some activities together to get your child used to telling the time. Our expert advises making clocks on a paper plate and getting the little one to move the hands around to the hours and minutes you suggest. 

But Hannah says, “Be sure to focus on important markers (12, 3, 6 and 9) as well as the hour hand and minute hand during construction.” 

You could also buy them a watch to get kids excited about learning how to tell the time.

Best analogue clocks and games to help with teaching kids to tell time …

Wooden Teaching Clock, John Lewis & Partners

This wooden toy clock from John Lewis really is about rolling fun and learning into one. The colourful design will help young children build their understanding of numbers, shapes and colours, while the removable discs will help them to develop their problem solving skills from an early age.

Telling the time poster, Etsy

Complete with both an analogue and digital clock, this fun pack from Etsy will help kids learn their numbers on the clock in no time at all!

The clocks are instantly downloadable and printable, easy to assemble and start learning from straight away.

Children's Tell the Time Wall Clock, Argos

To encourage kids to learn to tell the time, our expert Hannah says it's important to incorporate time into their daily lives.

One way you can do this is by putting a clock in their room and a colourful one like this is sure to be noticed.

Pastel Learning Time Clock, Etsy

Turn puzzle and play into one with this colourful clock game from Etsy.

Ideal for slightly older children who love learning through play, as they slot the puzzle pieces into the right order to make the clock face and point the hands to the correct time.

Plus, we love the unique pastel designs!

Amonev Time Teacher clock, Amazon

Another colourful option, this is a great clock to get kids learning to tell the time by separating the 15 minute intervals of the clock into sections.

Clear and precise, exactly what you need for little learners out there.

Kipper Tells the Time, Amazon

As recommended by our expert, Hannah from Storal Learning, Kipper Tells the Time is a fun activity book that uses some of our favourite children's characters to make learning fun and memorable.

In this story, little readers follow Kipper through his daily routine as he learns how to tell the time.

Orchard Toys Counting Caterpillars Game, Amazon

Who will be the fastest to get all their numbers and create the caterpillar? This colourful game is suitable for ages three to six years old and will help little ones advance their learning as they get older, with the numbers written and in dot form.

This is the perfect game to help young child learn to tell the time as it assists them with number sequencing, an integral part of learning the clock face.

Telling Time Bingo, Amazon

Bingo but not as you know it! This game, great for the whole family to play together, will help children recognise the clock face and tell the time in quarter hour segments.

A clever mum has shared a genius trick she used to stop her daughter feeling nervous on her first day back at school.

With little ones across the country returning to education after months spent in lockdown, emotions may be running high on the morning of the first day.

But one mother's genius trick is a great way to banish the nerves of children who are apprehensive about heading back to the classroom this month, following a long stint in the comfort of their own homes.

Taking to Facebook group Family Lockdown Tips & Ideas, the thoughtful parent shared her simple but effective hack, prompting others to copy her in order to reduce the risk of tears at the school gates at drop off time.

Posting a photo of two red crosses stitched into the cuff of her little girl's school sweater, she explained the smart thought process behind it.

'Thought I would share a little tip,' she penned on the social media platform.

'Our youngest has always had a hard time saying goodbye at the preschool/school gates, she’s very clingy in general.

'With the restrictions going back to school on toys & her comfort scarf (mine doused in 1 of her favourite perfume bottles of mine) I had to think quick.

'I chose to sew on two little kisses that get fully charged with more before drop off, so that whenever she feels worried/sad that she is missing me she can look at/feel/kiss her sleeve & feel happy again.

'It may last only temporarily but for now it seems to be working, smiles all round on day 1!'

Adorable!

The post attracted thousands of likes and comments from other mums and dads, with many praising the poster for the brilliant idea.

Others made sure to share their own similar tips and tricks.

'I usually draw a love heart on my daughter's index finger and tell her if she needs a hug then place her thumb on her finger,' one wrote.

'(I also do this on my finger) - by the time she comes home the heart has gone with all the hugging.'

With students across the country going back to school in September, everyone is taking extra measures to protect themselves. And a laundry expert has offered some advice on how to keep school uniforms as clean as possible.

Deyan Dimitrov, CEO of Laundryheap has listed some key tips to help keep uniforms as clean as possible.

COVID-19 can linger on fabrics for up to three days, so he has stressed that establishing a safe washing routine is essential.

First off, he has advised people to learn the difference between cleaning and disinfecting clothing.

Deyan reveals, "Cleaning involves the removal of dirt and germs from the surface of clothing. In some cases, this simply moves germs from one surface to another.

"Disinfecting, on the other hand, involves the use of chemicals to avert the spread of viruses or bacteria: by killing a high percentage of the germs or by preventing their reproduction. To be as safe as possible, you should ensure that you are disinfecting your clothes."

You should also wash laundry at a high temperature with a bleach product to really tackle germs.

Deyan recommends washing at 60 degrees Celsius for maximum results.

He adds, "Wear gloves to carry your washing and use any bleach-based detergent: powder, liquid or tablet. The heat of the water will work to deactivate bacteria and improve the effectiveness of the detergent. However, take note of fabric-care instructions, as delicate items may be damaged."

Where possible, it's recommended that you don't shake your laundry as it can spread particles.

Read more: Back to school: What safety measures are in place and how can children protect themselves?

Deyan also offered some specific advice when it came to PE Kits and school bags, as they can often get dirty after a long day at school!

Deyan said,  "Sportswear is more exposed to germs than the regular school uniform and so students should avoid wearing their PE kits more than once between washes."

As for bags, it all comes down to the material, as they need to be washed differently.

"Fabric bags can be placed inside the washing machine alongside the rest of your laundry and disinfected in the same way."

"Bags made from leather, or other delicate materials, can be washed using disinfectant spray or wipes."

Back to school time is just around the corner.

And while turning up to school in the correct school uniform is essential for all pupils, it turns out that there is one key part of the school getup that could be impacting the way your child learns.

According to new research, kids who wear a pristine white shirt to the classroom are likely to perform better at school.

With thousands of UK children preparing to return to education in the coming weeks, following their time off amid the coronavirus pandemic, leading laundry expert Dr Beckmann has revealed that pupils have a better chance of successful schooldays if they're wearing a fresh, white shirt.

This Morning star and psychologist Emma Kenny teamed up with the brand to explain why looking clean and put together in the classroom could directly impact the way kids learn.

READ MORE: What to look out for when buying a school uniform

"The association that people tend to have with white shirts seems to be that the wearer is more professional, and successful than those not wearing such attire, meaning that when they dress in such clothes it improves their performance.

"Whether you are a child attending school, a professional working in a busy office, or a CEO running your own business empire, you will be able to recognise the difference you feel wearing a bright white shirt, over a crumpled, or stained one," she explained.

"Professional dress, one study found, increases abstract thinking and gives people a broader perspective. So that crisp white shirt you look so good in is also contributing towards switching on your creativity button, making you more successful in your educational, or career endeavours.

“A crisp, clean uniform can be so influential that scientists found students performed better when wearing a smart white lab coat, than without. Simply believing that these kinds of clothes are worn by intelligent people made them score higher on their tests."

Now schools are going back in September, parents across the country are making a scramble for the shops to pick up school uniforms and supplies for the next academic year. 

So what should you look out for when buying a new school uniform and how can you get the best school uniform deals for 2021? With the September date for going back to school fast approaching and uniforms being dug out in all their hole-y, ripped and pen-marked states from the previous year, it’s likely that many families will be needing to refresh the school wardrobe for September.

It’s not only size and colour that matters. To get the most for your money, you should think about the material it’s made from, guarantees from suppliers and whether you can get it in a multi-pack for cheaper. After all, as many parents know, kids grow out of school uniform in what feels like minutes! 

This is what to look out for when buying a school uniform

The best deals are often in supermarkets and online

School uniform is a competitive market! In 2020 alone, Aldi has reduced the price of their school uniform bundle by 50p and in the process, undercut rival supermarket Lidl for the cheapest school uniform this year. 

So be sure to shop around for the best prices on school uniform and don’t settle for paying more than you have to. 

Multi-packs

If you need to buy things like shirts and trousers, why not buy more than one set and save money? Multi-packs are often cheaper than buying two items individually and it means you’ve always got a spare when one’s in the wash. 

Shops like Sainsbury’s, Tescos in-store and Morrisons all offer great multi-pack deals on school uniforms. 

Smart fabric technology

The school day is perfect for creating a multitude of stains on school uniform, especially if your child loves running around in the playground! But thankfully, fabrics are getting smarter all the time and making all our lives a little easier with improved stain repellent technology. 

Brands like Tesco’s F&F collection, for example, use stain repellent technology which helps keep colours looking newer for longer and works clothes a little bit harder for you. There’s a repellent finish on all polo shirts, as well as most shirts, trousers and skirts in their collection. 

Good quality

Aside from resisting a multitude of stains, school uniforms need to be able to withstand a fair amount of wear and tear. So be sure to look at the construction of school uniforms closely. 

With trousers and jumpers for instance, check to see if the knees and elbows have reinforced material as many school uniforms today often do and you’ll want to go for the one that has the best chance of lasting through the year. 

Look out for other qualities, like how well the materials are stitched and if there are any loose threads. Perhaps the pockets or hems look like they’re going to come apart easily. 

If you’re shopping online for school uniforms, it will be harder to check this but websites will say if their uniforms have reinforced areas for extra protection. 

Get the right fit

Every child is different and as school uniform is something they’ll be wearing five days a week, it’s important that it fits them well. 

As much as you might want to buy big so they’ll grow into it, maybe opt for trousers with an adjustable waistband for example, as you’ll be able to loosen them as they grow. 

Many school uniform ranges also offer more diverse ranges of school uniform and supplies. Tu by Sainsbury's for instance offers longer length school uniform and wide-fitting school shoes, perfect for kids who’ve already had a growth spurt! 

Don't buy more than you need

As tempting as it is to stock up for the year ahead while the deals are on, kids are growing all the time. What might fit them in September could be a no-go in April of the following year. 

Supermarkets and shops sell school uniform all year round with great offers on days like Black Friday and winter sales, so there’s no need to buy everything in advance.

Only buy what you have to from the school store

Some schools will require jumpers, blazers or shirts emblazoned with the school logo, which you have to buy directly from the school or an associated retailer. But don’t feel like you have to buy the full lot from them. 

To save money, only buy necessary items from the school store with the logo and head online or to your local shops for all the other general items like sports kits and school shoes. 

Don't forget the extras

And the final thing  to look out for when buying a school uniform...

As much as we’d all like it if school uniform was the only thing you had to buy at the start of the school year, more often than not they’re also joined by new pencil cases, water bottles and lunch boxes. You

These bits might bring your total up a fair amount, so don’t forget that you can get help with school costs from your local council. 

Many items, including tablets and devices, can also be purchased online from places like Amazon for less than in stores.

With the new academic year right around the corner and older children now off to another school, some schools also have a second-hand school uniform and supplies shop where you can buy good quality kit from those who have left the school.

The summer holidays are in full swing and while the British weather appears to be behaving itself there’s no doubt it will take a turn soon.

Keeping children entertained over the holidays can be a tiring task - especially when playing outside isn’t an option. So it’s always good to have a trick up your sleeve for lazy and rainy days. A tablet is a great option for learning and fun, not to mention there are plenty of types to choose from depending on your priorities.

From high-quality screens to ample storage, each product has its own standout features and many come with a plethora of parental controls so you can know exactly what your child is engaging with. We’ve rounded up some of the best tablets for kids - each with their own USPs...

Best value tablet for kids: Pebble Gear Kids Tablet

Overall verdict: The Pebble Gear tablet range offers devices for children which are educational, fun and safe. Currently, there are two different designs to choose from: Frozen 2 and Toy Story 4. It’s been crafted so kids can access content safely, with 500 games and apps which have no in-app adverts or purchases. Kids can enjoy a whole host of Disney content with games, e-books and more. Parents are guided easily through the initial setup process and can add up to four profiles on the tablet. Each one can have its own separate access times and limits - so this can vary depending on different ages of children.

In the parental area you can see how long kids have been spending on each app, which is handy for monitoring screen time for younger children. The tablet comes with a kid-proof bumper case - so is ready for any knocks or drops. There are also a number of accessories which can be purchased along with the tablet, such as a carry sleeve and a carry bag. Each device comes with its own 1-year GameStore App Junior guarantee (but afterwards there's a charge) as well as a 2-year service guarantee.

BUY IT NOW: Pebble Gear Kids Tablet, £99.99, Pebble Gear

Kurio Tab Advance, £98.89

Overall verdict: For those not wanting to splash out, this tablet is a great one with well-thought out software. It comes with preloaded apps, games and educational content, including favourites like Subway Surfers and Berry Rush. Other apps, such as You Tube, can be downloaded from the Android Google Play store -  as well as Netflix and NowTV - but a parent must enable/approve the installation.

It's worth pointing out that battery life is shorter than similar products on the market, but this isn't a problem if you're looking to limit a child's screen time. One reviewer commented,' The battery life is great but it is about 3 to 4 hours and to be honest it's all my kid needs for the day. It's small and handy the start up on this one is quick about 2 minutes compare to others and I don't think that's bad.'

Parents can customise their child's tablet experience in a password-protected area. They can also set time limits on each child's use, manage which apps are allowed in each child's profile and create a list of specific 'approved' and 'blocked' sites or categories when browsing the web. The device boasts a headphone jack and Micro USB and there’s also a hidden aperture for a microSD card, once you remove the case.

BUY IT NOW: Kurio Tab Advance, £98.89, Amazon

Lenovo Tab E10, £99.99

Overall verdict: This tablet is great value for money so it’s likely you’ll be less worried about accidents, compared to more expensive alternatives. Even so, it’s probably better suited to older children. Ultimately, it is a tablet built for adults, but it’s easy to create a child’s profile with parental controls on it. Each member of the family can have a dedicated profile with their own customised settings and with 16 GB of storage there's plenty for everyone. This device is also great for its sound quality, with two front speakers fitted with Dolby Atmos technology. Weighing just 530g and being just 8.9 mm thin it's also perfect for taking on-the-go.

The 7-hour battery life also makes it a great companion for road trips or long journeys. In terms of customer satisfaction, value for money, size and weight come out on top for this product. One Amazon customer commented the product's child-friendly nature, saying, 'Not bad tablet, with good size screen but picture quality and sharpness a little on lower side. Not the fastest but not bad for our daughter.' It also comes with a manufacturer's guarantee of one year.

BUY IT NOW: Lenovo Tab E10, £99.99, Currys PC World

Best kids tablets for educational resources Amazon Fire 10 Kids, £199.99, Amazon

Overall verdict: Amazon has a great range of kids' devices so it can be difficult to know which one to pick - but, in terms of visuals, it’s worth pointing out that this one has the largest display. What sets this tablet apart is its access to Amazon's outstanding parental controls, as well as Amazon Fire for Kids Unlimited - which is free for an entire year and offers apps, games, videos, books and audiobooks, including content from Disney, Nickelodeon and Sesame Street. This device is ideal for playing games, streaming videos, listening to audio books, reading digital comics and browsing the web (with parental locks on, of course) - in fact, it pretty much offers everything you could possibly want in a kids' tablet. Amazon uses a special version of Android, called Fire OS, which has fewer apps but the quality is still there.

It also comes with a 2-year guarantee, which means if a child breaks it a parent simply needs to return the tablet and Amazon will replace it for free. Commenting on this, one reviewer said, 'The two year "no questions asked" replacement scheme is just brilliant. We used that service twice for the 8 version and couldn't fault it - replacement was sent out next day. Worth every penny.' The Amazon Fire 10 is little more expensive than others on the market, but is worth the investment for the quality and content.

BUY IT NOW:Amazon Fire 10 Kids, £199.99, Amazon

Amazon Fire HD 8 Kids, £139.99

Overall verdict: The Amazon Fire HD 8 Kids tablet is a great cheaper alternative to its successor - the HD 10 Kids. The battery life and storage are noticeable upgrades from the previous 7-inch model, but the camera is a 2-megapixel unit on the back and VGA for the front - which is pretty poor compared to today’s iPhone standards. However, the sturdy case (which will survive a few drops) and the top-quality content are definitely key selling points. Performance from the processor isn't as good as other devices but does the job for the simple apps and video streaming that will keep your little ones entertained.

Kids can stream through Wi-Fi or view downloaded content with 32 GB of internal storage - but there's also a microSD card port which can hold up to 1 TB of additional storage. One happy customer wrote, 'I got this as a gift for my children during lockdown. I love the fact they have their own profiles, timers set by parents and extra apps can be added (we have added Sky Kids and Netflix as these weren't on already). Found it to be a bit of a faff with getting the extra apps, downloading the game on parents profile then having to go into the kids profile to approve/add them to their profile, but after a bit of messing around we figured it out.'

Like the Amazon Fire Kids 10, this one also comes with the 2-year worry-free guarantee which - looking at the Amazon reviews - many parents have taken advantage of. However, some people have pointed out a few downsides, such as the lack of offline video viewing and the fact that the large price increase over the standard HD 8 only gets you a one-year subscription to the Fire for Kids service.

BUY IT NOW:Amazon Fire HD 8 Kids, £139.99, Amazon

Kurio Tab Connect, £99.99

Overall verdict: For the price, this is a great, reliable tablet - but it is slightly lacking in finesse compared to the Amazon alternatives. However, what makes this device stand out is its great parental control features, for example, a parent can monitor the tablet, access it remotely and control parts such as the front-facing camera and the volume. These award-winning parental controls also allow adults to block apps and set time limits: by hour and days of the week. What's more, Kurio also filters 32 billion websites to ensure kids stay safe on the web. One Amazon customer wrote, 'Although I already had a Kurio Smart Watch for my little one I did a lot of research for a tablet, the child safety software Genius tipped it in the favour of the Connect together with the remote access facility. I have not been disappointed we have peace of mind and he lives the amount of suitable apps he can get access to. The software is easy to use.'

Around 40 apps are preloaded on the device and over 1 million apps available to download via Google Play including motion gaming and educational tools. The tablet also gives the option for multiple profiles, so siblings can keep things separate. Kurio also has apps which introduce children to STEM and coding and offers exclusive educational apps, e-books and videos which can come direct to the device every week for an entire year. This makes the Kurio Tab Connect a great option for homeschooling.

BUY IT NOW: Kurio Tab Connect, £99.99, Amazon

Best kids tablets for apps and playing games LeapFrog LeapPad Ultimate, £158.86

Overall verdict: It’s a little on the heavier side and has less storage and battery than some competitors, but this is a brand aimed at kids. The LeapPad's bulky nature means it's more likely to survive accidents (which lets face it, will happen). LeapFrog all about online safety, too. It only has content which has been deemed 'child appropriate' by the company’s learning experts. It also boasts Timer Controls which can set play time and rest hours - this is accessible through the Parent Settings section. Available in green or pink, the device comes with preloaded content featuring core skills in mathematics, reading and science as well as music, puzzles, logic and creativity to prepare kids for school. The operating system means you only have access to LeapFrog apps - but there are more than a thousand to choose from.

One customer had this to say about the product, ' I got this for my daughter for Christmas and the build quality is really robust and child friendly, the screen quality is a lot better than I was expecting and the sheer amount of things she can do with it is brilliant. All the games and videos can be downloaded to suit her age and abilities and there is a wide range of books for her to read along/listen to as well. The battery life is really good and the sound is perfect for what she need but you can put head phones in if needed.'

BUY IT NOW: LeapFrog LeapPad Ultimate, £158.86, Amazon

Apple iPad Mini, £399

Overall verdict: The iPad mini is small, easy to transport and (being Apple) it’s great quality. It also boasts larger storage and a higher resolution screen - in terms of pixel density - than the larger iPad. There's a variety of storage options available, too, depending on the needs of your family. The high-quality cameras are also a key selling point, with a 8MP back camera and 7MP HD front camera, as well as 1080p HD video recording.

Due to its price, this is a great option for older kids who prefer to watch videos and use apps rather than smaller children who can be a bit more rough and ready with devices. It's also compatible with Bluetooth keyboards so can be a great option for homeschooling. The A12 Bionic Chip allows it to run some of the most powerful apps around at incredibly fast speeds. For those who like to get a little more creative, it also supports Apple Pencil - which needs to be purchased separately. The glowing customer reviews certainly suggest it's worth paying a little more for quality. One person commented, 'This was a present for my 8-year-old son who loves it. It is the perfect size for him, not too small or big and ideal for on the go. Well worth the money.'

BUY IT NOW:Apple iPad Mini, £399, Currys PC World

Samsung Galaxy Tab A 8.0, £139

Overall verdict: This grown-up option is great for older kids because it's actually an adult tablet with features for children. A definite perk of this tablet is that they won't outgrow it - so youngsters can use it as they go into their teenage years. Serious thought has gone into the aesthetic of this tablet. Samsung has removed the home key and moved the logo to the back to give a user a larger screen to view and explore. Not to mention it's slim and portable design means it's great for popping into a rucksack. The 14-hour battery life also makes it ideal for trips out.

Android has plenty of options when it comes to parental controls and kids have access to thousands of apps, games and educational tools through the Google Play Store. The Kids Mode has a colourful and engaging layout with content that will keep little ones entertained for hours - but this can all be accessed by adults. One thrilled customer rated the product a 10/10, stating, 'Now on our family 3rd Samsung Galaxy Tab and know it suits our needs perfectly. Such a handy size.' A great add-on feature is that Currys PC World is currently offering a free 6-month subscription to Spotify Premium for new accounts, when this product is purchased.

BUY IT NOW: Samsung Galaxy Tab A 8.0, £139, Currys PC World

Apple iPad, from £349

Overall verdict: Nothing beats a classic. Apple tablets are known for their quality and this 2019 iPad is a great choice for older kids (who are less likely to have accidents than little ones). In terms of design, look and interface, Apple is known as being one of the greats - but obviously that comes with a price tag. However, the speed and features of Apple products make them some of the best on the market.

The App Store is a great place to discover new educational apps for all kinds of subjects, like lessons in geometry, learning a new language and practising music. There's also augmented reality features like making characters literally leap off the page for an immersive experience - which kids will no doubt love when it comes to playing and learning. And, thanks to the efficiency of the A10 Fusion chip, there's up to 10 hours of battery life.

The iPad also has a cellular option - although this is an additional £140 - which means you can access the internet wherever there’s a phone signal, not just areas with WiFi. Lots of customers have also noted the great improvement this iPad has on older Apple products - buyer commented, 'Bought as replacement for old iPad and I am well pleased with the speed and efficiency of my new one.'

BUY IT NOW: Apple iPad 2019, from £349, Apple

While forest schools are more common in rural areas, forest school activities can be carried out anywhere.

Forest school activities are used to educate young children through outdoor experiences, learning and play. Stuck for things to do with kids? Look to forest schools for some inspiration centred around nature.

So what is a forest school? A forest school is a programme of teaching that uses the natural world, often forests and other green rural spaces, to teach kids personal and social skills that they would otherwise learn at school, but in a more exciting and dynamic way. Forest school encourages children to connect with the natural world, take calculated risks and aims to help them develop independence, confidence and creative thinking skills.

According to the Forest School Association, forest school activities offer kids "opportunities to achieve and develop confidence and self-esteem through hands-on learning experiences in a woodland or natural environment with trees". Once the lockdown is over, you'll be free to find your nearest forest school and get your kids enrolled in one of the programmes, taught on a regular basis by trained professionals all across the country.

In the meantime, why not incorporate some of the key elements of forest school into your children's homeschooling? By setting up exploring nature as part of their home curriculum, you'll be able to get kids looking at the world around them in a whole new way, while soaking up the sunshine.

Try out these forest school activities at home...

Make a bug hotel

At forest school, the activities take place in a woodland or a natural environment as a way to connect the learner with the natural world. An activity such as building a bug hotel will help kids to recognise the common insects in their gardens, what they like to eat and how they live.

Find out how: How to make a bug hotel

Build a bird box

Birds that fly in and out of gardens make up an integral part of the ecosystem. Building a bird box like this one is relatively easy and will help you little one to foster an outlook on the natural world, from their back garden.

You will need:

• 4 pieces of wood measuring: 45cm x 15cm, 20cm x 15cm, 11cm x 15cm, 21 x 15cm
• 2 pieces of wood measuring 25cm x 20cm each
• Non-toxic, water-based paint
• Nylon bolt or wire

What to do:

1. Head into your garage and find those pieces of wood you’ve been storing forever, and join them together with nails and a hammer, after cutting them to size (back panel: 45cm x 15cm, front: 20cm x 15cm, base: 11cm x 15cm, roof: 21cm x 15cm, and two sloped side panels: 25cm at the back and 20cm at the front). 2. To attract lots of beautiful birds, create an entrance with a hole that measures 10cm high. To keep those little fingers safe, we recommend parents do the assembly and children do the fun part, decorating the bird box. 3. To give their bird box a personal touch, allow your kids to decorate it using non-toxic water-based paint and let them decorate it to their heart’s content. 4. Once finished, attached the box to your tree using a nylon bolt or wire, to reduce damage to your tree.

Create a herb garden

The best way to use the natural world to teach young children is to help them create a small piece of it themselves.

A natural herb garden like this one is a great place to start, whether you make it on the windowsill of your home or in a hanging herb garden, there are so many ways to involve growing plants and herbs into your children's homeschooling routine.

MORE: Things to do with kids: 61 activities to keep them entertained

From garden centres and many supermarkets, you can buy simple herb plants like rosemary, mint and sage. You can also buy seeds online.

Make a den

One of the aims of forest school is to promote the holistic development of children, encouraging them to be confident and creative. Making a den is the perfect way to translate this idea into your forest homeschool. Encourage your children to source all the materials for the den and then work with them to create their vision.

You will need:

• Old sheets
• Chairs
• Cushions
• Pegs or stones to hold the sheets down

What to do:

1. Collect everything you can find to build the den. 2. Use trees, swing-sets, slides and fences to tie sheets to. 3. If you have a tent, include that and try covering it with leaves or sheets to camouflage it. 4. As long as you have a couple of old sheets and can think of a way to hang them, your kids imaginations will do the rest of the work.

Colour from nature with leaves and flowers

This is one of the easiest ways to incorporate forest school activities into your homeschooling curriculum. Encourage your child to go into the garden or the local park and source out leaves, bark and wild flowers for their creations.

With these, they can create colourful pictures on paper or card.

You could even try and tie dye a t-shirt with some of the natural materials. Plants like flowers and leaves with a strong colour would be perfect to dye an old t-shirt.

Build a wormery

Building a wormery is much like creating a hotel for bugs. It will teach kids about an important part of their ecosystem and encourage them to think about the world around them, however with a wormery, your little ones are also encouraged to take on some responsibility as they have to continue to feed the worms.

What to do:

1. Once you’ve collected your five or so worms, put them in a large plastic bottle, Tupperware box or old ice-cream tub with some soil from the garden. 2. Make holes in the top so they can breathe 3. Feed the worms food scraps, like eggshells and vegetable peels

Go foraging as a family

Foraging is the act of recognising, collecting and then eating wild herbs and plants that grow in nature.

While it may sound a little out of your child's comfort zone, it doesn't have to be. Something as simple as blackberry picking is a great way to get into foraging, and it will help your kids forge a connection with nature in a whole new way.

Find out how: A beginners' guide to foraging from Wilder Child

The most important part about incorporating elements of forest school into your child's homeschooling curriculum is that they have fun, as well as learn important lessons from and about nature.

If you're finding homeschooling a bit of a struggle - never fear - we're right there with you.

For many of us still juggling working (or work from home) during this pandemic, homeschooling our little ones at the same time can be incredibly tricky. But if you're feeling fresh out of ideas for homeschooling inspiration, it's worth noting that VE Day is just around the corner.

This year, VE Day coincides with the early May Bank Holiday - so we've got a bit of extra time to mark the special occasion. And there's no reason why you can't enjoy brilliant VE Day celebrations from the comfort of your own home!

What does VE Day celebrate?

VE Day celebrates Victory in Europe Day - the day that Nazi's in Germany officially surrendered, marking the end of the Second World War.

VE Day takes place on 8th May, commemorating the same day back in 1945 when the war finally ceased. On that day, people from across the globe flocked to the streets for parties and get-togethers, enjoying their freedom for the first time in six years.

This year marks the 75th anniversary of VE Day, so it's set to be a very special moment indeed.

VE Day for children: VE Day 2020 school ideas

Before the long Bank Holiday weekend, it could be a good opportunity to switch up your homeschooling and teach your children a little about VE Day - or, take part in some fun arts and crafts to mark the occasion. Here are some VE Day 2020 school ideas.

MORE: How to have a VE Day celebration with your family - even during lockdown

The BBC has a short video on VE Day that you can watch here, explaining the events that led to the end of the war, for some context on VE Day.

In fact, BBC Bitesize has plenty of WW2 interactive revision guides available online to help your children learn more about that period in history, with a quiz at the end so that they can test their knowledge.

Twinkl, a home learning hub, have also provided an online VE Day resource pack, with power points and word searchers for your kids, to help make home learning just that little bit easier.

And when you're done with the schoolwork and fancy some light relief, get a little crafty and create your own patriotic bunting to hang in the windows over the weekend. Craft company Baker Ross are still selling card (buy it here), to make your own bunting out of, or even some ready-made fabric bunting (buy it here) which you can then personalise yourself at home.

Plus you can download a FREE bunting pattern from Baker Ross, so your kids can make their homemade bunting extra special.

Or, your kids might enjoy making a WW2 spitfire glider plane (don't worry, it's simpler than it sounds!). Find some brilliant resources on Twinkl, here.

However, if your kids are less into war planes and more into fun bunting, there are plenty of ideas on how to make your own too - see more on making a Union Jack bunting here.

And if you're having a VE Day self-isolating street party under lockdown, you might also like to enjoy some baking as a family - why not try these delicious VE Day baking ideas? We love the look of the Union Jack cookies!

Facts about VE Day

Did you know...

• The then Princess Elizabeth (now Queen Elizabeth II), and her sister Princess Margaret slipped out and joined the crowds outside Buckingham Palace celebrating the end of the war on VE Day! Under the darkness, the Princesses were able to celebrate unnoticed. The Queen allegedly called it "one of the most memorable nights of my life".

• The entire royal family - as well as Prime Minister Winston Churchill - also came out to greet the public on the balcony of Buckingham Palace as celebrations continued.
• VE Day wasn't actually the final day of fighting in the way - after 8th May, soldiers were still required to fly out and fight Japanese soldiers, who hadn't surrended yet. They surrendered on 15th August of that year - which is now called VJ Day - Victory over Japan Day.
• At 3pm on VE Day, Winston Churchill addressed the nation in a radio broadcast.
• King George VI also gave a radio speech. He famously said, "Let us remember those who will not come back…let us remember the men in all the services, and the women in all the services, who have laid down their lives. We have come to the end of our tribulation and they are not with us at the moment of our rejoicing."

VE Day quiz questions and answers

If you're taking part in a Zoom quiz this week, stay right on topic with these VE Day quiz questions - and their all important answers. Or, if you're not planning a boozy catch-up with friends, these could be the perfect way to test your children's knowledge of the historic day after all that homeschooling.

• Which came first - VE or VJ Day? (Answer: VE Day)
• Which Prime Minister led Britain through WW2? (Answer: Winston Churchill)
• Who were Britain's allies during WW2? (Answer: France, Russia and the United States)
• Where did crowds mainly gather to celebrate the end of the war? (Answer: Trafalgar Square, and up the Mall towards Buckingham Palace)
• What happened to Adolf Hitler following the end of the war? (Answer: He committed suicide)

The coronavirus pandemic is growing day by day, and since the 20th March, schools have been officially closed in the UK.

The news inevitably left parents and school-children feeling unsettled, with many having to face the reality of home-schooling their kids for the foreseeable future. In fact, it's even been reported that the world's most famous royal children, Prince George and Princess Charlotte, are set to be home-schooled during the pandemic.

As such, you may be wondering how best to continue your kid's education from home, to ensure that they don't miss out - especially if you're working from home and can't have grandparents around to help out with childcare.

Firstly, it's important not to put any undue pressure on yourself, to exactly emulate the school experience.

Noel Janis-Norton, Director of ‘Calmer, Easier, Happier Parenting and Teaching’, bestselling parenting author, speaker and advisor, said, "Here’s something that should help you feel better. Did you know that studies have shown that out of a typical six-hour day in primary school, there are only about two hours of focused academic learning taking place?

"So, if you schedule two hours of homework (in the morning when minds and bodies are rested), or three hours for teens, you can relax and let them entertain themselves in the afternoon."

What resources and tips can help then if you are currently home-schooling your children?

Make the most of free educational resources online

Even though you might not be able to stick exactly to your kids normal school curriculum if home-schooling them, there are some valuable educational tools out there you can really make the most of at the moment.

If you're keen to stay closely to what they would have been learning at school, the BBC Bitesize website is a really brilliant resource. It allows you to drill down into the right tools for your child's school year, and even lets you pick a subject area to focus on - from English to Geography to Maths and History. It caters to school children all the way from primary school to post-16, so will work whatever age your kids are.

What other websites can be useful while homeschooling?

• Cenutury - in order to help during the coronavirus pandemic, the website has a section for parents, and it aims to identify gaps in knowledge, address misconceptions and personalises content for your children.
• Oxford Owl - created by Oxford University Press, it has a specific section dedicated to home-schooling, including advice for parents, as well as a range of educational games and activities and a library for 3 - 11 year olds.
• Make Me Genius - although it's an American website, this website has a huge range of super valuable videos, designed for younger children. Here, they can learn about the solar system, pollination, and primary colours, for example, with fun, interactive videos.
• BBC History for Kids - this is a great resource for learning all about the past in an easy, digestible way, from Ancient Egypt to the Magna Carta.

Hannah Titley, who runs the UK’s first professional home-schooling group The Golden Circle, and Home Schooling Association UK, also shared her top recommendations for online schooling resources.

She recommended:

• Memrise - a language-learning platform that could incredibly helpful for anyone studying the languages.
• Quizlet - which makes simple learning tools such as games and flashcards for a variety of subjects.
• Seneca - providing free revision on exam-board specific subjects, for A Level, GCSE, and KS3 and K2S students.
• Twinkl - an online education publisher, providing access to handy lesson plans, interactive activities and assessments.

'Not all learning takes place in the classroom'

We all recognise that a vital part of our children's learning and development isn't just sitting in a classroom reading a book - it's about getting out and experiencing everything the world has to offer too.

Of course, social interaction needs to be limited during the pandemic, but getting outside whenever you can is a great way to learn - and getting some fresh air can be vital for yours and your kids mental health.

If you're teaching your little ones about photosynthesis, maybe go out into the garden and take a look at the leaves, or ask them to try and identify any flowers they see. It's still okay to head out on walks too, as long as you stay two feet away from others, so try and point out the different trees and landscapes you see if you do. It could also be a fun time to teach them about survival skills, such as building a fire or using a compass.

The mental health charity Mind advises during this time, "Get as much natural light as you can. Spend time in your garden if you have one, or open your front or back door and sit on the doorstep."

Embrace the opportunity to explore creativity

When children are at school, there may be a smaller window of opportunity for arts and crafts, especially as they get older and start focusing more on exams and their future.

But home-schooling them means that you can a reserve a little more time for them to get creative. After all, there are plenty of amazing benefits.

Many studies have revealed that working on craft projects helps develop children's fine motor skills, such as hand-eye coordination and and dexterity, as well as building on their creativity which could prove beneficial in later life. Or, what not take some extra time to tecah them some new and basic cooking skills?

Don't be afraid to call in some extra help

Alex Dyer, an ex-teacher and founder of online tutoring platform Tutor House, explained that there's no need to feel like you need to do home-schooling all by yourself.

It's okay to rely on the guidance of your school's teachers, particularly if your children are a bit older and learning more advanced things. He said, "Schools and teachers will be sharing information with you, as the parent, on what your child is currently learning and what they should be learning over the next month or so. Stick to it and ask questions.

"Teachers will still be working during this time, and many schools will create a dedicated communication platform for parents and students. This will become invaluable for you while monitoring your child’s home schooling, so make sure you are keeping up to date with what’s being shared and communicated within the school’s community."

There are also various online tutoring servies that can help. Tutor House for example are offering online A-Level/GCSE exam preparation courses at a reduced rate, during the COVID-19 outbreak.

Dr Leo Evans, owner of Tavistock Tutors, who also offer online tutoring, said, "As a parent, we have many skills but a thorough knowledge of the curriculum may not be one of them, and it’s important that during this time, our children don’t fall behind. So investing in an online tutor, focusing on various subjects, even once per week will keep their knowledge and education topped up. An online tutor will also give you a break, and give your child someone else to engage with."

Set a home-schooling routine as best you can

Even if your children aren't going to school, it's important to still maintain a sense of normal routine, both for productivity and for your kids mental wellbeing.

Alex said, "This doesn’t have to be a rigid timetable, but set up a structure with daily goals to achieve, giving children something to aim for and reward them when the goals are reached to keep them motivated.

"It may be beneficial to try and mimic the child’s school day as much as possible. For example, breakfast at 8am, first home lesson at 9am, lunch at 1pm, with finishing off the learning day at 3pm."

Noel also said that it could be helpful to focus schoolwork in the morning only though, as that is when children are generally most focused.

She said, "Children can feel very anxious and weighed down by the thought of lots of homework, especially if they are allowed to keep putting it off until later and later in the day. Anxiety makes many children irritable and demanding, which of course irritates parents. But we need to remember that this reaction is not their fault.

"You can remedy this problem by making a realistic schedule and sticking to it. Academic work and household chores are best tackled in the morning, when minds are fresh and willingness is usually highest. Make sure that the homework is suited to your child’s skill level, or else she will feel frustrated, and it will undermine her confidence."

But don't forget that all-important down-time

While it might be tempting to keep working while the kids are paying attention, it's not the most useful thing for everyone. Alex said, "Breaks are just as important as study periods for resetting focus, keeping kids happy and grownups sane. Aim for a 15-minute ‘snack’ break mid-morning, and a good 45 minute to an hour lunch break in the afternoon."

Maintaining some rules from school can also be helpful for kids to create a separation between work-time and relaxing time. "Just like in school, phones will only be a distraction so try to get your children to put them to one side when going through schoolwork, and TV’s should remain off throughout the day," the team at Tutor House said.

Remember to keep socialising as best you can

We might not be able to send our kids to school where all their friends are, or head out on weekend play-dates, so it's important to keep socialising where you can. Dr Leo explained, "When children are in classrooms, they benefit from social development and interaction. They may not have this benefit at home.

"So it’s important that you consistently interact with them, give them regular breaks and an hour lunch, and talk to them about what they are learning at the end of the day. During a time of self isolating, seeing friends isn’t an option, but online calls will help to break up the day, tackle boredom and will keep them on track."

Online celebrity classes are available now from the likes of Jamie Oliver and David Attenborough to Carole Voderman. They’re sharing their skills online in a whole new way, keeping kids engaged at home.

These are just some of the celebrity kids classes available online.

As the UK is adjusting to lockdown, it’s starting to feel like working from home and homeschooling is the new normal. But while many schools are putting resources online and some teachers are even live-streaming lessons from their living rooms, the changed environment won’t necessarily been inspiring for lots of children.

However, Education Secretary Gavin Williamson announced over the weekend that there is no planned date for schools to go back, meaning this for now really will be the new normal. Luckily many celebrities have stepped up to help educate the nation's children in fun and lighthearted ways, freeing up some of the pressure on teachers.

So why not keep their brains engaged with a whole timetable of classes from their (and your) favourite celebrities?

With enough things to do every day, you’ll just need to set them up and then you can get on with your own work – knowing they’re in the capable hands of celebrated children’s writers, fitness enthusiasts and maths wizzes.

Here is your timetable of all the celebrity kids classes going on

Anytime: Geography with David Attenborough

The legendary wildlife presenter, David Attenborough has joined a whole host of other celebrities in the class programme offered by BBC Bitesize Daily. He'll be teaching us all about our world and the animals who live in it, to encourage children to look not just into the wider world around them, but closer to home too.

The programme also features the likes of Danny Dyer teaching kids all about Henry VIII, and footballer Sergio Agüero helping children learn how to count in Spanish. The classes are 20 minutes each, starting with those suitable for 5-11 year olds at 9am and then 11-15 year olds at 10am.

9am: P.E with Joe Wicks

Get a rush of feel-good endorphins to start the day with these viral exercise classes from “The Body Coach”, Joe Wicks. Live every day from his YouTube channel, both parents and children have been absolutely loving the fitness enthusiast’s HIIT-inspired workouts for children.

10am: Music with Myleene Klass

Straight out of their gym kit and into the music room (or living room, as others like to call it) for a music lesson with world-class pianist and singer, Myleene Klass.

Every day on Twitter and at 10am on her YouTube channel, Myleene is leading a music lesson to teach children how to be noisy in the most useful way possible. Her first lesson taught kids across the UK about dynamics, learning Italian and “playing kitchen instruments like a boss”.

11am: English with David Walliams

The Britain’s Got Talent Judge and noted children’s author, David Walliams is hosting a reading session of his stories every day for little book worms.

Head over to “Elevenses” with the World of David Walliams for a new story every day at 11am.

1pm: Maths with Carole Vorderman

Countdown’s Carole Vorderman has long been involved in teaching kids maths with her site, The Maths Factor. Normally membership to the side costs a couple of pounds a month, but for the whole coronavirus outbreak you can join for free!

Suitable for kids aged 4-11, The Maths Factor even follows the national curriculum so you won’t have to worry about kids missing out on vital maths lessons while they’re off school.

You can access the site at any time for full maths-lessons led by Carole herself.

5.30pm: Home Economics with Jamie Oliver

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ElrdzncX1Rg

The renowned television chef, Jamie Oliver is keeping kids cooking with fantastic home economics lessons every day, Monday to Friday – taught from his very own 5-star kitchen.

This is one of the celebrity kids classes for parents to get involved with, as you’ll have to supervise the cutting and chopping. But with other videos also on his channel to inspire adults to come up with new cooking ideas, it's one you'll be tuning into anyway!

Head over to Jamie’s YouTube channel for the first Kitchen Buddies class, on how to make pancakes.

There are LOADS of resources out there to keep kids busy during this chaotic time, so you can get on around the house and only have to check-in to make sure they’re still listening! But we reckon you’ll want to get involved too, with these great sessions from celebrities.

By now all of us that can work from home are doing so. Alongside children off school and other family members in the house, it can be quite a stressful time and that’s a mood that young ones can easily pick up on. That’s where Cosmic Kids yoga comes in...

Although they might not know exactly what’s going on, they’re sure to have picked up on some of the changes going on in their lives even if they’re quite young. Their usual routine of getting up, dressed and going to school has been disrupted and instead, they’re being forced to entertain themselves more than ever while busy parents are still working.

So it’s important now more than ever, that they (and you) are finding the time to de-stress, relax and learn how to think positively.

That’s where Cosmic Kids yoga comes in! By getting children up, moving and engaging in productive activities, we can be sure that they’re staying calm and that their minds continue to whir, getting on with home-school work - while not bothering you too much!

Download the app to your phone or tablet here and start your free two-week trial today.

Here’s how Cosmic Kids can help your children de-stress, relax and think positively…

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pT-s1-phgxs

What is Cosmic Kids yoga?

Through entertaining yoga practices and dynamic movement, Cosmic Kids engages young minds by keeping their bodies active, even while inside. Using a combination of colourful, larger than life characters and positive affirmations, the activities and sessions also teach children some of life's important lessons - like embracing change and looking on the positive side, all from the comfort of their own living room.

This includes...

Cosmic Kids Yoga

From the highest mountains right down to under the sea, instructor Jamie takes children on a fun-filled journey in each 15-minute episode. All of which are available in the app, which you can download straight to your phone and then, if you have a Smart TV, stream to your television.

And completely for free (just type in ‘0’ in the donation box) you can also download the full 8 page menu worth of sessions, so you can navigate your way through the exercises and your children can choose which world they want to live in today.

Download here

Fun sheets

Originally created for an offline accompaniment to the online sessions, these fun sheets are packed with crafty ideas to encourage mindfulness at home.

Explanations of daily yoga poses for you and you little one to try out are included, plus activities to give them a chance to step back and consider the world around them.

These are also normally paid-for, but given recent events and the UK going into lockdown, Cosmic Kids Yoga has made them available for free. Donate if you can, otherwise use the link below to get your free fun sheets.

Download here

Guided Mediation Scripts

We all know that children are comforted most by their parents and carers, so why not try some guided mediation with them? It sounds like the last thing that hyper kids will want to do after being stuck inside the house all day, but these tried and tested scripts are determined to set even the most lively of children off into a calm state.

Each script has an introduction explaining the purpose of the mediation to you, as well as guidance on how long the session will take, plus tips on the best kind of home environment to set the mediation up in. With breathing exercises and visualisations, you can help your child to build confidence while they’re away from their normal day-to-day routine.

Download here

Fill your children's days with these fun activities, while promoting exercise and mindfulness at home.

Is Cosmic Kids Yoga free?

Currently, many of the online sessions such as those on Youtube, as well as the fun sheets and guided meditation scripts are totally free! Whereas they would normally be paid for, during the stressful times that we now find ourselves in, Jaime and Martin at Cosmic Kids have decided to release much of their material without any cost. But if you are able to, they suggest a donation towards keeping the services running.

In the donation box for each of the packages you can download above, under "Name a Fair Price" on the right hand side of the page, you can just type in "0". Click "I want this" and you'll be taken to an email page to download the files.

What are the benefits of Cosmic Kids Yoga?

In a survey taken by over 400 teachers who use Cosmic Kids Yoga in their teaching, almost 100 per cent of them said that the yoga sessions had a positive effect on the children who participated at least once a week.

They also said they saw other benefits, including:

• Changes in strength and balance in the children
• Improved behaviour
• Positive changes in students' empathy and awareness
• An improvement in children's ability to focus
• Overall enjoyment in participating in the sessions

Their colourful, dynamic and entertaining in-app sessions have been proven to not only develop children’s physical health but also to help to improve children’s general mental welling. So, taking part in mindfulness activities are sure to keep your children happy, relaxed and thinking positively about any changes to their daily routine at this time.

Keep Calm and Yoga On!

Encouraging your child to care about schoolwork, homework, or exams is a fight hard fought, and (if we're being honest) one that all parents unite in.

And, while it’s frustrating, no amount of empty parent threats will work (you know the kind; no internet, you’re grounded, no devices etc) but if you can identify HOW your child or teen learns and work with them on that level, then you're winning half the battle, especially if you're attempting to home school for the first time.

We speak to the experts at MyTutor to reveal the different learning styles and how to get the best from them.

1. The logical learner

If your child has a natural aptitude for maths, harbours a secret love of science, and has always excelled in the architectural delights of Lego, then everything makes sense if it’s in a logical order.

If you find your kid uttering phrases like, ‘lets make a list’, ‘we can work this out’ or ‘there’s no logic’ then they may be a logical learner.

For these sorts of learners, they like to understand the reasons behind the content and skill, they like categorising and sequencing different pools of information can help them break things down into systems they can remember.

2. The social learner

If your child is always the last one to leave school or social gathering because they’ve hung back chatting, or if they love taking part in team sports then they could be a social learner.

Some kids can go into themselves when they struggle with a problem, but social learners do the opposite, they’re vocal and love to discuss what they’re learning.

These discussions could be with peers or adults. They learn best by chatting it all through, whether in the classroom, small ‘study groups’ after school or in a pair with a friend.

If they find topics tricky or needs some extra help, one-to-one tutoring can be perfect for social learners as it give them the undivided attention they crave for open discussion.

3. The visual learner

If your son or daughter is great with a map and has an amazing sense of direction, as well as a love (and skill) of doodling then they may be a natural visual learner.

Visual learners understand things best simply by looking, if they can translate information into diagrams, illustrations or mind maps then it can help them remember what can seem like the trickiest topics.

That could mean drawing quick illustrations next to words when language learning, or creating a visual timeline to remember historical dates and events.

4. The verbal learner

Reading aloud and writing is a passion with these types of learners, as well as a natural fascination with languages. If you see these characteristics in your teen then they may be a verbal learner.

This means that when it comes to tests and revision, they can memorise things by using rhymes, acronyms, and other word games to remember numbers, sums, languages, dates and anything else they need to learn.

Read more: Tips on how to deal with exam stress

5. The physical (or kinaesthetic) learner

These guys can not sit still. If your teen can’t make it through a film without fidgeting moving or just blatantly losing interest and walking away, then they may be a physical learner.

These learners remember things best when their bodies are engaged – not just their minds. Sitting still can be particularly hard for physical learners, and often they’ll have a sporty side too.

For optimised learning weave in activities such as practical experiments for subjects like Biology and Chemistry, great for knowledge to really sink in.

When it comes to written subjects such as English, History, Politics or languages, highlighting, note-taking and making flashcards can help them engage better and remember.

6. The solitary learner

If your teen keeps a diary, prefers to spend time alone has a strong sense of self and are highly dependent they may be a solitary learners.

Solitary learners study best on their own where they have the space to fully focus and think deeply about what they’re learning.

If this sounds like your teen, it’s extra helpful for them to have a desk in a quiet corner of their house where they can knuckle down.

The school library or public library a really useful place for them can also be if they want to get out of the house.
READ MORE: The best FREE educational resources online and tips for homeschooling

7. The auditory learner

Auditor learners like to talk about what to do, about the pros and cons of a situation. They enjoy listening but cannot wait to get a chance to talk, they like to hear themselves and others talk.

They tend to remember names but forget faces and are easily distracted by sounds.

This learning style lends itself well to classroom learning, as well as audiobooks and podcasts in their own time.

They could try recording lists of quotations for English Lit and vocabulary for French and Spanish before listening back to soak in the knowledge.

Homeschooling has become increasingly popular in recent years. And in order to keep things as productive and helpful as possible, many are turning to the brilliant resources available online and through our phone.

While there are plenty of educational websites, there are also many free educational apps, if you want to switch your focus a little bit. Working on a phone may provide your children with a bit of a chance of pace, and could even allow them to engage with the material in a different way.

Plus, there are so many brilliant educational apps out there that it makes sense to take advantage of them during this complicated time.

Free educational apps for homeschooling

BBC Bitesize

The BBC Bitesize website is one of the most popular tools for at-home learning, and their app is a great tool as well.

The app has material for all school years and all ages, and the information is all tailored towards the National Curriculum. Interactive quiz's make learning fun and a bit different, and videos will help to engage visual learners too, as well as adding a bit of fun into the homeschooling day.

Cost? It's an entirely free app, so no need to worry about any extra charges.

Star rating: 3.5/5

Get it here

Duolingo

The language learning brand also has a highly-rated app, which isn't just tailored towards adult learners - you can also delve into lessons specifically targeted for school children too.

Whether your little ones were learning a language in school or not, it could be the perfect time to give it a try, if you're attempting to supplement their school learning or not.

The app has fun, bite-sized lessons to help test knowledge, making it easily digestible, and also allows you to listen and learn too.

Cost? Free, but with in-app purchases

Star rating: 4.7/5

Get it here

Khan Academy

This is normally a resource for teachers, but now that more and more parents are homeschooling, it could be a great one for us at home to use.

It's got a huge range of educational resources, with thousands of exercises, videos and articles for your kids to devour. Quizzes with instant feedback and hints can also be hugely beneficial for children, and when you log off at the end of the day, it's easy to pick back up where you left off.

On this app, you can also make use of the daily schedules they offer, to add a bit of structure to your homeschooling day.

There's also a Khan Academy Kids for real little ones, with fun educational games instead.

Cost? Free

Star rating: 4/5

Get it here

Quizlet

The app version of the Quizlet website offers a great way for children to study, revise and practise all the subjects they'd ordinarily be learning about at school.

With this app, they can learn with flashcards, but their memory to the test, and also keep in touch with classmates who are also using the app, by sharing flashcards amongst each other.

While there is standardised test prep on the app, there's also different ways to keep learning about science, maths, and history, as well as less typical school subjects, like coding.

Cost? Free, but with in-app purchases

Star rating: 4.8/5

Get it here

Homer reading

If your kids are still learning to read, this free app can help them do so in a fun way.

It includes lessons on phonics, sight words, ABCs and more, and is catered for children between the ages of 2 and 8.

The app engages kids by tapping in to their interests, with fun cartoon characters there to help them learn.

Cost? Free with in-app purchases

Star rating: 4.5/5

Get it here

Apps that aren't free - but are well worth the small one-off cost:

Hit the Button Maths

Aimed at 5-11 year olds, this is a fun way of getting in a maths lesson if you are homeschooling.

There are a series of games on there to complete, which are actually maths tests, with questions on everything from times tables, doubling, halving, division and square numbers.

And even better, you can play without the pressure of a countdown timer if you want to reduce stress for your kids even further. Bronze, silver or gold stars and trophies are also awarded, to help with motivation.

Cost? A one-off payment of £2.99

Star rating: 4.1/5

Get it here

Forest

This isn't technically an educational app, but can help immensely with productivty and focus if your kids are struggling to concentrate.

It works by having the user plant a seed in a forest. As time goes by, the seed will grow into a tree. However, if the user gets distracted and picks up their phone, the forest will begin to wither and die. There's also an incentive to plant some real-life trees, to help save the planet too!

Cost? £1.99, plus some in-app purchases if you wish.

Star rating: 4.8/5

Get it here

From the LGBT+ community, to single-parents and foster families, it's vital children understand all of the diverse groups that exist in society.

Raising children to be kind and to respect each other as individuals, regardless of difference, is one of the key foundations of early education. Do this and you will not only boost a child’s self-esteem and sense of belonging, you’ll also break down limiting stereotypes and aspirations.

Conversely, if a child feels they don’t belong or even that they’re unsafe, it can affect their ability to thrive and, in the longer-term, result in serious issues such as poor mental health.

Teaching children about diversity in schools

Because of the reasons listed above, new regulations for teaching about inclusive relationships in schools across England are being introduced this September. Now children will be able to learn about family relationships and set-ups that may better reflect their own – whether that’s a single-parent or foster family, or one with two mums or two dads.

Ruth of Wilkes, Federation Principal of Castle Newnham school, Bedford, explains: ‘Families come in different shapes and sizes. Teaching diversity is about respecting the whole of our community – whatever their home and family circumstances – so they feel accepted and valued.’

Some schools have already put inclusivity at the heart of teaching. At Glencoats Primary in Renfrewshire, pupil leaders can become part of the Rainbow Squad, helping to implement the school’s LGBT Charter - for instance by ordering LGBT books for the classroom. ‘For example, a book like Olly Pike's Kenny Lives With Erica and Martina is a great way to introduce diversity into the classroom,’ says Glencoats head teacher Michelle Watson.

The school is welcoming LGBT visitors, including MP Mairi Black, to celebrate LGBT History Month, an event that extends beyond the school gates to local libraries and the police station. Michelle says: ‘Our local community have been brilliant at getting behind our journey and every single person has really embraced the message that everyone is welcome here.’

Teaching about diversity brings educational benefits, too. Exposing children to ‘difference’ brings new ideas and challenges, which in turn improve critical thinking and problem solving. Plus, further down the line, employers value skills learned by pupils who are used to navigating a diverse society.

How can you help your child understand diversity?

Picture books

Using picture books is an easy way to introduce diversity to young ones, and can also be invaluable in reinforcing identity and belonging. Teacher Farrah Serroukh, from the Centre for Literacy in Primary Education, explains: ‘To find a fragment of yourself in the pages of a book is a profound and powerful experience. It holds a mirror up to your existence and reassuringly suggests that you are not alone.’

Books such as Kenny Lives With Erica and Martina help to counter prejudice with a story line that celebrates difference, rather than fearing it. This is a message that can literally save lives, as a report by the charity Stonewall finds that young LGBT+ people are at greater risk of self-harm.

If you want to get more inclusive books into your school’s library, visit Olly Pike’s website, where you can donate picture books on a variety of diversity themes, to local schools for as little as £10.

Parents can help their children understand and be aware of diversity in several ways, from reading inclusive books together to talking about how prejudicial language can be hurtful and damaging to other children. For children’s books that reflect the world around us, visit booktrust.org or letterboxlibrary.com.

Challenge stereotypes and discuss role models

If you have sporty children, look for positive gender role models and challenge stereotypes. Check out the Premier League Primary Stars website, which has wealth of resources on its Roar! For diversity page, including films of professional footballers and cricketers explaining how diversity benefits their teams.

Positive picture books

These books are all engaging reads and feature characters who happen to be different:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QU6uFPbWGZw

Kenny Lives With Erica and Martina by Olly Pike – a young boy finds that embracing change can make the world a more colourful place. Author Olly Pike is on a mission to get a copy of Kenny Lives With Erica and Martina into every school in the UK by September 2020. Watch his video above, to find out more.

Julian is a Mermaid by Jessica Love - a warm-hearted story about a boy who loves dressing up.

Amazing by Steve Antony – a celebration of friendship between a boy (who happens to use a wheelchair) and his dragon.

Me and My Sister by Rosie Robbins – a sweet story about siblings who are differently abled.

‘Sulwe’: Lupita Nyong’o and Vashti Harrison – a book about self-esteem and how beauty comes from within.

There’s a growing trend to get children outdoors and immerse them in nature. Better known as the Forest School Movement, it's the latest education trend is to get kids outside in the rain or sunshine.

What is a Forest School?

Forest Schools offer a unique approach to education inspiring and engaging children through outdoor experiences, learning and play.

According to the Forest School Association, a outdoor activities offers learners “opportunities to achieve and develop confidence and self-esteem through hands-on learning experiences in a woodland or natural environment with trees.”

Currently, Forest Schools are more common in rural areas, and are used to educate younger children in nursery or reception.  Though, the educational approach is also being used with teenagers and adults who have emotional and behavioural difficulties.

Six key principles of Forest School learning

Each Forest School follows a programme with a common set of principles articulated by the Forest School Community and published by the Institute for Outdoor Learning Forest School in February 2012.

• Forest School is a long-term process of regular sessions, rather than a one-off or infrequent visits
• Education takes place in a woodland or natural environment to support the development of a relationship between the learner and the natural world.
• Uses a range of learner-centred processes to create a community for being, development and learning.
• Aims to promote the holistic development of all those involved, fostering resilient, confident, independent and creative learners.
• Forest School offers learners the opportunity to take supported risks appropriate to the environment and to themselves.
• Forest School is run by qualified practitioners who continuously maintain and develop their professional practice.

How and when were forest schools founded?

Though the Forest School education system is a fairly new phenomenon in the UK, outdoor learning actually dates back to the 19^th century.

Early pioneers of outdoor camps and outdoor education include philosophers and naturalists in Europe and the UK such as William Wordsworth, Leslie Paul and Kurt Hahn.

Forest Schools originated in Scandinavian countries such as Denmark, Finland and Norway in the 1950s, and were inspired by Scandinavian values of open-air living and open-air education. The first outdoor learning school was introduced in the UK in 1993 by a group of nurses from Bridgewater College in Somerset.

Forest School activities for outdoor classrooms

 The outdoors offers children so many activities to learn and play.

Stephanie Bryan, founder of Forest School Honey Bees in Bentley believes, “The outdoor curriculum helps to teach children a broad range of intrapersonal and interpersonal skills and valuable life lessons – similar to the ones they would learn in a traditional school setup, but just in a unique and fun way!”

• Build fires
• Cook on a campfire
• Create dens and shelters
• Create a nest for a bird
• Create a bug hotel
• Create art using colours from nature
• Build an assault course for squirrels
• Hide and Seek
• Puddle jumping
• Foraging

'We love the freedom of forest schools'

GoodtoKnow spoke to Bethan Smith, who sent her daughter Elsie to a Forest School from the age of 18-months, as well as younger son Fox who accompanied Elsie at school from birth in a baby sling.

Bethan said, "Some Forest Schools have set activities at set times, such as bush crafts, mud crafts or games but our Forest School had no itinerary.

"This allowed for the kids to get deeply involved in whatever they were doing, be it den building, climbing, imaginary play or just laying back in a hammock. Some days Elsie wouldn’t want to do anything other than sit on my lap and read books.

"The main thing that caught my attention was the absolute freedom the children had at Forest School. My kids had freedom to play where, what and when they wanted.

"There were a few rules such as no running with sticks and no stepping in the fire square, but mostly the children could do as they liked.

"I especially believe in the magic of Forest Schools. When we spend an afternoon out in a woods somewhere and Elsie and Fox are so obviously at home there."

A typical day at forest school

GoodtoKnow spoke to Stephanie Bryan, founder of Forest School Honey Bees in Bentley, about a typical day for children.

"Our little ones enjoy a hearty, nutritious breakfast to prepare them for a day of fun and physical activity in the great outdoors before getting their outdoor gear on in preparation for the real fun to begin.

Each day we will set up base made up of cosy pop-up sleeping tents, a small nappy changing tent, a toilet tent and a hand washing station.

Activities can range from treasure hunts, climbing trees, building dens and creative play to reading stories, mark making and mathematics including counting leaves, acorns, feathers in the outdoors. 

We enjoy our morning snack, lunch and afternoon snack out in the outdoors, then towards early afternoon we start to make our way back to our base at Honey Bees Cottage.

Here we will take the time to reflect upon our day, enjoy an extra-curricular class and discuss with the children what they enjoyed the most.

The little ones that have an afternoon nap to reflect on their morning outside and then wake up to play and learning for the rest of the day at Honey Bees Cottage."

What are the benefits of forest schools?

 Forest School helps children develop a skillset that is hard to teach in a classroom environment. Benefits for children include problem-solving, assessing risk, teamwork and communication skills.

Teamwork and communication skills

Researchers at Loughborough University, including Dr Janine Coates and Dr Helena Pimlott-Wilson, conducted  research in to two primary Forest Schools in Nottinghamshire. The findings suggests outdoor learning encourage collaborative skills, by helping children to solve challenges with others.

Alex Alves, Forest School leader at Fairfield Prep School said, "The freedom of outdoor learning offers children the chance to form their first meaningful friendships, sharing experiences and playing together.

"We often see children come out of their shells in the more relaxed environment, facing issues like shyness or difficulty socialising."

Rounded educational experience

The study found Forest Schools shift focus away from results, exams and achievements, and instead offer a more rounded educational experience.

Learning ties in with much of the National Curriculum including, science, geography, art and design. For example, examining insects and plant life links to the science curriculum, and tasks such as building dens and woodwork links to art, technology and design.

Developing risk-taking skills

Research further found  ‘experiential’ learning equips young children with practical skills which can be transferred to family activities outside of school. Indeed, children learn to assess problems and take risks, to make sensible, informed decisions based on the situation at hand.

Forest School founder Stephanie further explains, “Risk-taking under close adult supervision is also actively encouraged, helping to foster friendships and collaboration between all children and adults present."

Children learn to use tools, start fires and respect fires - they also earn how to risk-assess, decide what is safe and when they need help.

Stephanie continued, “We always operate with a high adult-to-child ratio (typically one to five) so we can plan, observe, adapt and review the progress of each child to ensure their aims are being met.”

Creativity and imagination

Benefits include just simply being outdoors and at one with nature. Undoubtedly kids get more fresh air and beautiful scenery, but there are real physical and mental benefits to spending time outside.

Forest Leader Alex said, "Children are natural born adventurers and are always keen to learn anything and everything about the world around them, so their curiosity and inquisitive nature should always be encouraged. Forest Schools offer an environment that’s perfect for this, allowing them to discover new objects and experiences and get hands-on with nature."

According to research carried out by Michigan State University, children who spend five to 10 hours a week outside are more creative, diverse and imaginative.

Alex agrees, "Outside, children have the space to devise their own stories, transforming climbing frames into castles and dens, and developing characters with their peers. These storytelling skills promote interacting with others and fires the imagination, which helps children develop the tools for literacy and other subjects."

 Building an environmentally aware generation

By fostering a relationship between children and their natural environment we are teaching children to respect their environment and give back to nature. Alex explains, "By encouraging an active lifestyle and a positive approach to the environment, we are helping to develop a more environmentally-conscious and sustainable generation."

Where to find your nearest forest school?

If you're searching for your nearest school and would like to find out more, head to forestschoolassociation.org. The schools and organisations all provide programmes in line with the six principles of outdoor education and have been approved by the Forest School Association.

SATs papers are the statutory tests taken by primary school children to test their knowledge of the National Curriculum, as well as monitor the school's progress as a whole.

Your child will sit two sets of SATs exams: one, in Key Stage 1, when they're in Year 2 and around 6-7 years old, and a second in Key Stage 2, when they're in Year 6, and around 10-11 years old.

Prior to 2008, your child would have also completed SATs papers in Key Stage 3, when they were in Year 9 and around 13-14 years old, but these exams were scrapped by the government in favour of a school-by-school report card to give parents richer information, so this third set of tests is no longer completed.

SATs are taken during the summer school term, generally in May of each year.

Exam stress: Tips on how to help your child keep calm during exam time

Why does my child have to take SATs papers?

SATs are taken to provide information about your child's progress, in comparison to children of the same age, on a national basis.

The results are used to verify that schools are teaching their pupils the key skills in core subjects at these early stages, thereby ensuring that every child is given the tools they need to be successful throughout their education.

However, the government is keen to stress that SATs are not qualifications, and don't affect your child's future option at school.

What do SATs papers test my child on?

In both Year 2 and Year 6, your child's SATs test their grasp of basic English and mathematics.

The English tests focus on grammar, spelling, punctuation and comprehension, whilst mathematics questions test arithmetic and reasoning.

In each year, they will sit six papers, two for each of the following subjects:

• English grammar, punctuation and spelling
• English reading
• Mathematics

Around the same time, they may also undergo a phonics screening. A sample of approximately 9,500 pupils (5 pupils at around 1,900 schools across the country) will also be randomly selected to undergo a science sampling test, although the results of this will simply be used for national data and will not be returned to pupils or used in school performance tables.

What do my child's SATs results mean?

2016 was the first year that SATs results were given in scaled scores rather than levels, as was previously the case. Your child's raw results (i.e., the number of marks they actually achieved) will be converted into a scaled result, where a score of 100 means that they are working at the expected standard.

The numbers below show an example of the 'raw scores' your child would need, to reach the 100 scaled score level in each subject area needed for their age group.

Year 2 SATs results English grammar, punctuation and spelling: 25 out of 40 English reading: 22 out of 40 Mathematics: 37 out of 60

A score below 100 indicates that your child may need extra support, whilst a score of above 100 suggests the child is working at a higher level is typical for their age group. The maximum score possible is 115, and the minimum is 85.

In this age group, papers are marked through teacher assessment, so your child's scores informed by the teacher's observations and your child's classwork as well as their results.

The numbers below show an example of the 'raw scores' your child would need, to reach the 100 scaled score level in each subject area needed for their age group.

Year 6 SATs results English grammar, punctuation and spelling: 43 out of 70 English reading: 21 out of 50 Mathematics: 60 out of 110

A score below 100 indicated that your child has met the expected standard in each test, whilst a scaled score of 99 or less means they haven't. The maximum possible score is 120, and the minimum in 80.

In this age group, papers are marked externally, without the input of a familiar teacher, so their results are based entirely on their exam schools.

They may also be given an alphabetic code, which translates as follows:

AS: the expected standard has been achieved NS: the expected standard has not been achieved A: your child was absent from one or more of the test papers B: your child is working below the level assessed by KS2 SATs M: your child missed the test T: your child is working at the level of the tests but is unable to access them (for instance, if they have special educational needs)

Schools can choose which data they release to parents, so, for instance, you may receive your child's scaled score, or a code, but not be given their raw score.

How can I prepare my child for their SATs?

Teachers should be doing most of the work when it comes to preparing your child for SATs, but if they do become the subject of discussion at home, you can reassure your child that they should not be worried about taking the tests.

If you wish to do a little extra 'revision' at home, you can play mental maths games or practice spelling, and read with your child to aid their comprehension. Past papers are available on the GOV.UK website, should you wish to read them yourself, or run through a couple of questions with your child. Some schools also offer extra lessons in the run-up to the tests.

However, whilst you should keep the dialogue around SATs open in case your child has any concerns, you should not put any undue pressure on them around the time of the exams. Even if they end up with a lower score than expected, it will not have a negative impact on their prospects.

The future of SATs papers

Recently, there has been pressure on the government to scrap the controversial exams for the younger age group, after many parents reported that their children were unnecessarily stressed over the assessments.

In March 2017, Education Secretary Justine Greening said: 'The government has reformed the primary school system to make sure children can master the basics of literacy and numeracy so they get the knowledge and skills they need to succeed in later life.'

'Now we want to build on that by developing a stable assessment system that helps children learn, while freeing up teachers to do what they do best - supporting children to fulfil their potential.'

Celebrities are calling for more creative arts in schools following a sharp decrease in the number of students being taught subjects including drama, music, dance and art.

Sir Lenny Henry, director Sam Taylor-Johnson, model Adwoa Aboah and photographer Ian Rankin are just a few of the celebrities championing creative arts in schools.

In total, 150 celebrities have co-signed a letter drafted by the Creative Industries Federation calling on the government to recognise the value of creative arts to young people’s education and mental health, as well as the future economy and ever-growing arts industries.

The letter to Education Secretary Gavin Williamson states: ‘For the benefit of the whole of the UK, we urge government to incentivise a broad and balanced curriculum within schools. Ensuring young people have access to creative education is vital if the country is to maintain a resilient talent pipeline for the creative industries, the fastest growing sector in the UK economy’.

This isn't the first time Sir Lenny Henry has hailed the importance of creative arts education. Speaking at the annual conference of the Association of School and College Leaders (ASCL) in Birmingham, Sir Lenny called for a world where youngsters have 'paintbrushes in their hands, not knives'.

The letter to MP Gavin Williamson comes following an 8 per cent fall in the number of students choosing to take creative arts subjects as their GCSE options since 2014/2015. Students taking art at GCSE level has also fallen by 35 per cent since 2010.

As well as a fall in creative subjects taught at GCSE level, a further sharp decrease was reported in drama and music taken at A-Level by students.

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Creativity leads to better wellbeing

The All-Party Parliamentary Group on Arts, Health and Wellbeing Inquiry published a report in 2017 that found people who take part in the arts are 38 per cent more likely to report good health and wellbeing.

After engaging in creative activities, the report found:

• 79 per cent of people ate more healthily
• 77 per cent engaged in more physical activity
• 82 per cent reported greater wellbeing

There's a direct link between creativity and happiness

According to a recent study, engaging in creative activities contributes to an upward spiral of positive feelings and psychological wellbeing in both children and adults. The study further revealed that spending time on creative activities and goals during a day is associated with higher activated positive affect on that day.

Engaging in creative education such as drawing, dancing and acting, can also reduce anxiety, depression, boost your mood, as well as slow your heart and mind down.

Family and Board Certified Art Therapist Carolyn Mehlomakulu said: 'We all experience a feeling of happiness when we have successfully created something. Engaging in a creative activity leads to lowered negative emotions and increased positive feelings. People often report that they feel calmer, happier, and less stressed when doing something creative, even something as simple as colouring.'

Ben Evans, Headmaster at Edge Grove school said: 'Just as regular exercise and team games are important throughout children’s school years, a curriculum which encourages creativity will allow them to relax, laugh, take risks and cope with disappointment far more readily and with increasing maturity.'

The creative arts aid emotional expression

Creative education can help facilitate expressions of emotions that may at times be hard to let out. This is extremely beneficial for children who find it difficult to speak openly and understand their emotions and feelings.

For instance, art can help individuals connect with different parts of their mind which are largely unconscious. In this sense, art is is a great way for children to express themselves and define their identity. Carolyn Mehlomakulu said: 'Someone could make a collage by looking for images that connect with how they are feeling and what is on their mind, then arranging those pictures into a collage. If someone is feeling angry or upset, they can express and release those feelings.'

Ben Evans said: 'Emotional intelligence, empathy and the ability be oneself are all elements of a child’s development which need close support from home and school. Children will develop these attributes at different ages but if they are exposed to a creative curriculum which encourage discussion, collaborative working, communication and the importance kindness, children will naturally be more emotionally mature.'

A creative education boosts problem solving skills, communication skills and stimulates imagination

Creativity in the classroom can help boost problem solving skills by altering the way a child tackles a specific problem. Allowing a child to think freely and outside the box will encourage them to come up with different and innovative solutions to a problem. Subjects such as drama and dance usually involve teamwork and help children build on their communication skills.

Creativity is one of the driving forces behind imagination in children. Loosening the classroom structure and allowing children to compose a musical song or write a creative story will spark their imagination and curiosity. Ben Evans said: 'Creative education will allow children to be imaginative and give them the freedom to think beyond the obvious, be curious and adopt new learning habits.  A narrow curriculum will inhibit children’s ability to be imaginative and to think outside the box.'

Three women's stories that remind us why creative arts are important

For Vicki Psarias, music helped her sons overcome shyness

Mum-of-two Vicki Psarias and Honest Mum blogger said: 'Both my sons, Oliver, nine, and Alexander, six, are creative like I am, and their school's commitment to the arts, particularly music, has helped them both grow in confidence and feel happier too. They moved to their new school 6 months ago as my youngest son Alexander was unhappy at his former one.

'Always confident and out-going at home, he'd become a shell of himself. The current school, with their nurturing and pastoral approach and deep commitment to the creative arts (singing and dancing) have hugely contributed in helping him overcome his shyness at school. He's become a different child.'

Sara Tasker's daughter found creative arts and crafts projects helped her daughter gain confidence

Mum-of-one Sara Tasker said: 'My daughter is naturally very shy and self-contained. She's not a fan of trying new things in front of people. Creative education has been transformative. At school my daughter dug clay from local woods to make bricks and then built a pizza oven.

'She's motivated to make the beautiful crafts enough to actually join the group and sit down. When she needs help, she's finds courage to actually ask, and talk to her peers or teacher. She's still shy but creative education has given her lots of small wins and safe experiences of leaving her comfort zone. So now she's happier and more confident to try new things.'

Soli Lazarus believes creative arts can be a great outlet for children with educational needs

Former primary school teacher Soli Lazarus said: 'I used creative lessons to include pupils with a a variety of special educational needs and disabilities such as autism. For example, when studying the Egyptians we used bandages and dressed up as mummies, and when studying WWII pupils built their own air raid shelters.

'Creative activities encouraged pupils to use all their senses, gave them confidence and promoted communication skills. Creative lessons ensure that the school curriculum is fully inclusive for all pupils.'

6 ways to spark creativity at home

We sought out the help of Family and Art therapist Carolyn Mehlomakulu for tips on encouraging children to be more creative at home:

• Get messy

Carolyn advises: 'Set up a space that allows for creative activities. Children cannot be as creative if we are always worrying about mess. Have a space in the home that is set aside for creativity, has art materials available for use, and allows for some possible mess.'

Give this quick and easy play dough recipe a go to keep the kids entertained. There’s something weirdly therapeutic about kneeding this squashy substance into different shapes.

• Set time aside for creative play

Carolyn said: 'Allow time for child-led, unstructured art and play. This allows kids the space to come up with their own ideas, develop creative thinking, and be able to express themselves. When working on a project with your child, don’t always tell them what to do or how to do something. Encourage them to come up with their own ideas, then let them experiment and try new things, even if it leads to mistakes and messes.'

• Show your interest

Carolyn advises: 'Take time to ask questions about what your child is creating and listen to them share about their ideas and their process. Minimise your focus on whether a child’s art and creative projects are “good” or “beautiful.” Instead, when children create, try to comment on and praise other aspects like originality, problem-solving, and persistence.'

Encourage your children to perform a puppet show  to the whole family. They can design the set themselves using bits and bobs from around the house, create their own characters, and then come up with a story plot.

• •Get the kids outdoors

Encouraging children to play outdoors away from their TVs and mobile phones enables a child to connect with nature. Activities such as making a fairy garden, or making a bird feeder and growing vegetables can help children be more creative, use their imaginary outside of a traditional classroom setting.

• Lead by example

Carolyn advises: 'Engage in a variety of hands-on activities with your child. Art, cooking and baking, building, gardening, and pretend play all involve creativity and the joy of making something new. Parents can encourage these things by modelling creative activities in their own life as well as engaging in these activities with their children.'

• Limit screen time

Carolyn said: 'Although some games are creative, most screen time does not really involve creativity. Setting limits on this encourages children to spend their time in more active, creative things.'

It's normal for children to feel exam stress when they have tests coming up, but there are ways parents can help ease the pressure. Here, the experts share seven top tips...

While most parents understand that exam results are not the be-all and end-all in determining your child’s future, that's not always how kids see it. Whether it's GCSEs, A-levels or even a set of mocks, exams are a challenging part of school life for many, but as their parent you can make this time slightly easier. Encouraging your child to open up about how they're feeling, making sure they get some downtime in between studying and knowing what they should eat before an exam and how much sleep teenagers need are just some of the ways you can make a difference.

CBT therapist and Counselling Directory member Tom Holland-Pearse told GoodtoKnow: "You may have heard of 'fight and flight' before - usually in the context of a caveman fleeing from a predator - but it is every bit as relevant when discussing exam stress and how this manifests in our thoughts, feelings and behaviour...Whichever response you tend to have (perhaps you have multiple), there’s no doubt about it: neither is a good strategy for achieving your best in the upcoming exams. Too much stress is no good for your emotional regulation or storing memories, and ignoring the problem is no good because you won’t learn anything!"

With this in mind, we've spoken to Tom and other experts to find out some of the key ways you can support your child if they're suffering from exam stress.

How to spot if your child is suffering from exam stress

According to the NHS, there are certain signs to look out that indicate your child is suffering from exam stress. These include:

• Worrying a lot
• Feeling tense
• Headaches and stomach pains
• Not sleeping well
• Feeling irritable
• Losing interest in food or eating more than normal
• Not enjoying activities they previously enjoyed
• Being negative and having a low mood
• Feeling hopeless about the future

How to help your children with exam stress

1. Talking about their feelings

Be calm, positive and reassuring and put the whole thing into perspective. Try reminding your child that feeling anxious is normal, and nervousness is a natural reaction to exams. You can even explain times that you have felt stressed or worried, and give them examples of how you overcame your fears.

Dr Danielle Grey, clinical director of Purple House Clinic Birmingham advises: "Discuss exam pressures in a compassionate, patient, and proactive approach. At the core of helping a child through such experiences is establishing a consistent, safe, and nurturing environment where they can express their feelings without judgment. Understanding that feeling nervous is normal can help children manage stress better, while open communication fosters a supportive environment where children feel safe to express concerns."

She suggests dedicating quality moments of time to your children where you set aside other distractions to and discuss exam pressures. "When children feel that unwavering support, they are more inclined to reach out for guidance, share their fears, and confidently navigate the maze of life's challenges," Danielle says.

If your child is reluctant to open up to you, you could encourage them to use a gratitude journal or positivity planner instead, to help them work through their emotions.

2. Help your child to study

Make sure your child has a comfortable and quiet place to work and study, and ask them how you can best support them with their revision. However, Dr Danielle Grey reminds us that this doesn't mean you should resolve all your child's challenges.

"By allowing them to grapple with challenges, they not only learn to find solutions on their own but also develop critical problem-solving skills," she explains. "This hands-on experience in handling difficulties bolsters their confidence and teaches them perseverance. In the long run, fostering this sense of independence and resourcefulness in children equips them to face life's challenges with resilience and tenacity."

However, if your child is struggling and needs extra support, take time to understand their anxieties and difficulties. Try to understand what support they need and share how you will support them to overcome the challenges. Continue to check in to explore whether the plan has resolved their concerns or what you might need to consider next.

3. A balanced diet

A balanced diet is vital for your child's health, and can help them to feel well and focussed during exam periods. That said, a small treat - whether that be their favourite takeaway on a Friday, or some energy boosting snacks during revision - is also a great way to help them look forward to something and distract them from worrying about exams.

Elsewhere, be sure to include adequate protein such as lean meat, oily fish, beans and pulses, eggs and low-fat dairy products, and complex carbohydrates such as wholegrain, wholewheat, wholemeal varieties of cereal, bread, rice or pasta wherever possible.

4. Encouraging exercise

It's well documented that exercise can help alleviate feelings of stress - and it doesn't need to be an intense workout. In fact, a study in the Journal of Clinical Psychiatry found that just 20 minutes of physical activity three times a week can have a positive effect on stress, depression, and anxiety. This activity can be cleaning or gardening, for example – it doesn't have to be traditional exercise.

CBT therapist Tom agrees that it doesn't matter what form of exercise your child does, any movement will help. "Just get away from that desk and MOVE. At least 30 minutes a day, and team sports (which include a social element) are even better. It’s good for your body, good for your mind, it will improve your sleep and it will improve your appetite. There are very few instances in life where exercise isn’t a plus - and during a busy exam period is no exception."

5. Don’t add to the pressure

It’s normal for parents to want the best for their children, but you may be adding to the pressure they’re already feeling without even realising it. According to NHS Inform, support group ChildLine says that many of the children who contact them feel that the greatest pressure at exam time comes from their family.

"Before your child goes in for a test or exam, be reassuring and positive," they advise. "Let them know that failing isn't the end of the world. If things don't go well they may be able to take the exam again. Talk about the parts that went well rather than focusing on the questions they had difficulties with. Then move on, rather than dwelling on things that can’t be changed."

6. Schedule in downtime

Not only will some restful time help alleviate any worry or stress your child may be feeling, it could also help them perform better in the exams. Tom Holland-Pearse explains, "In order to ‘memorise’ everything, your brain will need periods where it’s simply not cramming more in. And secondly, it’s always good for your mental health to have something just on the horizon to look forward to." He advises one or two days a week with no studying at all.

Meanwhile, Dr Danielle explains that having a schedule determining when to study can help children manage their time and feel more in control. She adds, "Breaks are really important - taking breaks can boost concentration and support our ability to retain information. It can be difficult to take regular breaks since we can become caught by the belief that ‘more is more’, but they are an important part of the learning process and will allow our brains to process information rather than becoming overwhelmed."

7. Getting enough sleep

Stress disrupts our sleep, if we sleep badly, we’re less able to cope with stressful situations, according to one study in the Behavioral Sleep Medicine journal, which can then create a vicious cycle of poor sleep and stress symptoms.

In addition, sleep plays a critical role in memory consolidation - where the brain commits new information to long-term memory - so getting plenty of sleep will help your child perform better in their exams.

Dr Danielle says: "Allowing time to wind down from studying before bedtime will support children to slow down and relax. Winding down should be about activities that support sleep, such as reading, relaxation and showering, rather than using tech."

Meanwhile, Tom suggests having a cool, dark and quiet environment, and avoiding caffeine and sugar for six hours before bed.

If you're worried about your teen's stress levels through exam season, check out these four expert tips for guiding them through. You could teach them these relaxation techniques for stress too.

For kids and parents alike, going back to school has it challenges.

So, the last thing any parent needs is for one of the kids to start showing flu symptoms, and then swiftly end up infecting the whole family.

Kleenex and Strepsils all around is not the best way to kick off a school year.

And no matter how many medicines and home remedies for colds you try, it can still feel like a struggle.

Well it turns out there might be a nifty little trick to avoid the back-to-school germs that seem to penetrate the house year after year.

It could all come down to your children’s bath time.

Flu prevention – how does this tip work?

A medical professional has advised parents that changing bath time could be the key to avoiding the flu.

Pharmacist Shamir Patel has said to parents that, rather than getting the kids in the bath to wind down for bedtime, you should get them to wash as soon as they’re home from school.

In an effort to reduce back-to-school illnesses in children, the UK pharmacist and father-of-three says that, in washing away all the bugs and germs that children pick up from the classroom as soon as they get home, you’ll not only reduce infection in your children but will also help prevent the bugs from spreading to the rest of the house.

Read more: Flu: Symptoms, treatments and everything you need to know about the flu vaccine for adults and children

Shamir, who founded medical website chemist-4-u.com, says that the longer viruses linger on the skin or clothing the more the germs will spread and infect others.

Cold-causing viruses can survive on household surfaces for up to six hours, and on the clothes for up to an hour, so by getting the kids out of their uniform and all cleaned up as soon as they get in, you’ll dramatically reduce the number of germs spreading around the house.

Extra tip? Try and wash clothes at 60C, or with an antibacterial detergent if you don’t want to ruin the clothes, to try and reduce germs contaminating the house.

And get the little ones under the age of nine booked in for free flu vaccinations too.

With this news you might even be able to give the Vicks a miss this year.

Here’s hoping!

Asthma UK give their top tips on how to respond when a child has an asthma attack.

Asthma UK is warning parents of asthmatic children about the increased risk of asthma attacks when children go back to school in September.

Asthma UK warns: 'More children are rushed to hospital with their asthma in September than at any other time of the year.'

According to Asthma UK, 1.1 million children (1 in 11) in the UK have asthma, an inflammatory condition of the airways of the lungs. Asthmatic children are particularly vulnerable when they go back to school as they may have fallen out of the routine of using their preventer inhaler. The medicine builds up over time, which helps to protect the airways.

Without regular preventer medicine, children with asthma are susceptible to having an asthma attack triggered by cold or flu viruses.

Dr Andy Whittamore, Clinical Lead at Asthma UK and a practising GP says: 'The ‘Back to School’ effect of asthma can be frightening and potentially life-threatening for children returning to classrooms this week. It's easy for children to fall out of routines over the summer and forget to take their asthma medicines. This means their asthma is a ticking time bomb and then when they catch a cold or flu at school, they are at risk of having a potentially life-threatening asthma attack.

'Parents can follow simple steps to cut the risk of their child having an asthma attack, such as giving the school a reliever inhaler for their child and a copy of their asthma action plan. They should also ensure that their child takes their preventer inhaler, this helps to build up protection in their airways over time so that if they come into contact with triggers such as colds, they are less likely to have an asthma attack. Adults also need to know how to spot when their child’s asthma is getting worse and know what to do if they have an attack and can get information and support from www.asthma.org.uk/back-to-school.

'If a child is using their reliever inhaler (usually blue) three or more times a week, coughing or wheezing at night or feeling out of breath and struggling to keep up with their friends, parents should book them an urgent appointment with their GP.'

Asthma UK are advising parents to familiarise themselves - and anyone who looks after their child - with what to do if their child is having an asthma attack.

Warning signs that a child’s asthma symptoms are getting worse...

• Puffing on their reliever inhaler (usually blue) three or more times a week.
• Coughing and/or wheezing at night or in the early mornings.
• Breathlessness – if they’re pausing for breath when talking or struggling to keep up with friends, that’s a sign.
• They might say their tummy or chest hurts.

If you notice your child's asthma symptoms are getting worse...

• Give two to four puffs of their reliever inhaler, through a spacer. Space the puffs out so there are 30-60 seconds between them. If their symptoms don’t get better or if their reliever inhaler isn’t lasting four hours, follow our asthma attack advice below.
• Make a same-day appointment with your child's GP.
• If the surgery is closed, call 111 for advice.
• If you have any questions, call our asthma nurses for advice on 0300 222 5800(Mon – Fri; 9am – 5pm). You can also visit our child asthma advice.

If a child’s symptoms are rapidly getting worse...

• Call 999.
• While you wait for the ambulance, help the child sit up and give them a puff of their reliever inhaler every 30-60 seconds. You can give them up to 10 puffs.
• Repeat this step every 15 minutes while you are waiting.

For more information on how to protect your child when they’re back at school this September, visit Asthma UK’s website or call the Asthma UK Helpline on 0300 222 5800 to speak to an asthma nurse.

Parents can also speak to our asthma nurses by calling 0300 222 5800 or by messaging 07378 606 728 on WhatsApp.

The first day of school is almost upon us, and although summer is obviously great fun and everything, we can all agree that it's also totally exhausting!

However: the kids will soon be occupied for a glorious seven hours, and that leaves a lot of time for work, play, or whatever else you want to do.

After having some time to yourself, you know that you'll start missing the little rascals just a bit, so now is the time to make the most of this newfound freedom while it lasts. Then cue the rush to the school gates, so you can hear all about their first day and welcome that chaos back in the house again!

That feeling that you're free to do absolutely anything you want

You can paint your nails, finally sort out that annoying sofa stain, maybe go for a run... or just spend the entire day online.

A kitchen that stays clean for more than 30 minutes

Sometimes you forget that you have a lot of counter space.

The opportunity to have a long shower without anyone yelling from the other side of the door

Go all out and even shave your legs!

The sweet, sweet sound of silence

Such a rarity in the house, your ears are practically ringing.

Not having to be a referee

The relief of not needing to constantly separate sparring children!

Having a chat on the phone without feeling like little ears are listening

'Hang on, Judy, let me just go to another room...'

Being able to watch grown-up telly for once

Finally, you can work on that Netflix list that's been building up since July.

Actually being able to finish your whole cup of tea or coffee while it's still hot

Let's all take a moment to reflect on the countless mugs of tea that have been neglected and forgotten.

Settling down with a good mag or book

Who cares if you're not really that bothered about that celeb interview? Just having a magazine in your hand instantly gives the illusion of relaxation...

Doing a solo supermarket shop

Nobody's there to nag and whine that they want four packs of Polos for dinner.

Having time for a cheeky high-street session

You can blissfully try on whatever you want - no rush.

Actually being able to finish the housework

Tackle that hamper of your dirty clothes that you'd nearly forgotten about.

Missing them

You start missing your name being screamed and admit to yourself that your house it looking a little bit too clean. And then you realise, the beauty of having the kids gone is... well, getting them back again!

Fed up of taking plain fairy cakes to the school bake sale or fete? Why not try these tasty recipes for easy cakes, cookies, buns, muffins and brownies instead?

Planning on baking something for a school fete? Looking for something quick and easy to sell that's going to raise some money for the school? You've come to the right place! From bite-sized bakes to simple cookies, we've got lots of delicious recipes to choose from.

The kids are going to love tucking into cookies, cupcakes covered in Smarties not to mention wanting to win a massive chocolate cake covered in chocolate fingers. We've got lots of ideas to inspire you here.

Click through our ideas for what to bake for a school fete now...Biscuits are great for summer fetes and bake sales. These delicious choc chip cookies are super-simple to make.

Get the recipe: Easy chocolate chip biscuits

Butterfly buns

goodtoknow user Niamh says, 'I added vanilla essence and red food colouring, also dyed the buttercream icing pink. They were fab - no more store-bought cakes!'

Get the recipe: Butterfly buns

Phil Vickery's Millionaire's shortbread

These Millionaire shortbreads are layer upon layer of goodness. Made with caramel, melted chocolate and buttery shortbread, you could whip up a lot of these bite-sized treats in one go. Pile them high on the table when it comes to serving and make sure you've got tongs to serve, otherwise you'll get rather chocolaty fingers.

Get the recipe: Phil Vickery's Millionaire's shortbreads

Smartie cupcakes

Cupcakes are perfect for baking for a school fete, especially when they?re decorated with buttercream and a generous sprinkling of sweets, chocolates or sugar strands. These cupcakes are topped with Smarties. Watch them disappear in seconds.

Get the recipe: Smarties cupcakes

Apple flapjacks

Whip up these delicious apple flapjacks in no time. Cut into triangles or squares and sell in little cellophane bags - the kids are going to love them! The sweetness of the apple and the softness of the oats work wonders together, you might have to keep some to one side for yourself.

Get the recipe: Apple flapjacks

Chocolate fingers cake

If your kids' school is holding a raffle at the school fete we'd recommend making this chocolate covered chocolate cake. It will be the ultimate prize for that lucky winner! Make the day before and cover in cling film before its show time. Store in a cool place to stop the chocolate fingers, and other chocolaty sweets, from melting.

Get the recipe: Chocolate fingers cake

Coloured candy cookies

These coloured candy cookies are quick and easy to make and you can make a lot of them in one go too. Swap the Smarties for other sweet treats like classic chocolate chips, M&M's or even crushed Maltesers. They won't cost you much to make either!

Get the recipe: Coloured candy cookies

Chocolate brownies

Everyone loves a chocolate brownie and the kids are going to love these too ? even the teachers will want to try some. This is our favourite brownie recipe, which of course you don?t have to serve with freshly whipped cream but is perfect on its own cut into squares.

Get the recipe: Chocolate brownies

Orange fairy cakes

We've sneaked in this fairy cake recipe as it's great for allergy sufferers. Plus, you can also make it with plain flour and butter.

Get the recipe: Orange fairy cakes

Spiced carrot cake squares

These bite-sized squares will be snapped up in no time. With a hint of spice, thanks to the mixed spice powder, these flavour packed mini carrot cakes are really simple to make. Top with a homemade, orange-infused icing and get ready to serve.

Get the recipe: Spiced carrot cake squares

Gluten-free coconut cookies

These deliciously crunchy coconut cookies from Woman's Weekly look really impressive but are actually really easy to make.

Get the recipe: Gluten-free coconut cookies

Vanilla fairy cakes

If you do want to make fairy cakes, make your own frosting to impress!

Get the recipe: Vanilla fairy cakes

Cranberry and cinnamon tray bake

goodtoknow user Kelly says, 'Just made this and it turned out really well. The children have eaten half of it hot out the oven already!'

Get the recipe: Cranberry and cinnamon tray bake

Honey joys

If you're short on time, grab some butter, sugar, honey and cornflakes to rustle up these incredibly easy yet super-tasty sweet treats.

Get the recipe: Honey joys

Brighton rock buns

The best thing about this Woman's Weekly recipe is it uses really simple and cheap store-cupboard ingredients.

Get the recipe: Brighton rock buns

Mary Berry's lemon drizzle cake

Mary Berry's classic lemon drizzle cake recipe is one of our most popular recipes and you'll soon see why! It's cheap, quick and easy and something all your friends and family will love tucking into...

Get the recipe: Mary Berry’s Lemon Drizzle cake