Management Information Systems (MIS)

Is Your School’s MIS Helping or Hindering You? A Guide to the Top 5 Platforms

In the evolving landscape of education technology, Management Information Systems (MIS) have become essential for efficient school administration. From attendance tracking to performance analytics, the right MIS can save time, reduce workload, and improve decision-making. But with so many options available, is your current MIS still the best choice for your school or multi-academy trust (MAT)?

With many schools shifting from legacy systems to cloud-based solutions, now is the perfect time to reassess whether your MIS platform truly works for you.

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What do Mirror Neurons do

Why Teachers Should Use Explicit Modelling: The Neuroscience Behind Learning by Observation

Great teachers have long understood the power of demonstration. Modelling is a crucial part of the learning process, whether it’s showing students how to solve a complex maths problem, structure an essay, or navigate social interactions. But why is explicit modelling so effective? The answer lies in neuroscience—specifically, in the role of mirror neurons.

What do Mirror Neurons do?

Mirror neurons are brain cells that function when doing something and watching someone else do the same action. First discovered in the 1990s in primates, these neurons have since been identified in humans and are considered fundamental to learning through observation.

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Developing Critical Thinking While Using AI

How UK Teachers Can Support Pupils in Developing Critical Thinking While Using AI

Artificial intelligence (AI) is transforming the classroom, offering students new ways to access information, generate ideas, and streamline learning. However, recent research highlights a concerning trend: students who frequently rely on AI for problem-solving and decision-making demonstrate lower critical thinking skills.

This phenomenon, known as cognitive offloading, occurs when individuals depend on technology to think for them rather than developing their own analytical abilities. For teachers in the UK, the challenge is clear—how can they encourage students to use AI effectively without sacrificing independent thought?

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Maximising Classroom Organisation Success: Advice for Secondary School Teachers

Effective classroom organisation is critical to ensuring that both teachers and students thrive in secondary schools. By understanding current practices and adapting to the unique challenges of Key Stages 3 and 4, teachers can enhance the learning experience for their students. Here, we provide practical advice for navigating class structures, student allocations, and teaching assignments based on insights from a recent analysis of secondary school organisation (Allen, 2025).

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How Technology Affects Learning

How Technology Affects Learning: Managing Screen Time

The rapid integration of technology in education has transformed the way students learn, but unstructured screen use presents a growing challenge for educators.

How Does Excessive Screen Use Impact Students?

Excessive, unregulated, and unstructured engagement with digital devices often leads to detrimental effects on cognitive abilities and learning outcomes. Let’s explore how poor screen habits affect students and what teachers can do to address these challenges.

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What strategies do you think could help

What Kind of School Do Teachers Prefer to Work In?

Teacher shortages are a growing concern, particularly in schools with high numbers of disadvantaged students. These schools often struggle to attract and retain teachers, leading to higher turnover, less qualified staff, and fewer experienced teachers. But why do these challenges persist, and what do teachers really look for in a school?

Recent research sheds light on this complex issue, revealing a significant gap between what teachers say they prefer and their true feelings.

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Cognitive Potential

Unlocking Cognitive Potential Through Music: The Power of Music in Education

The decline in music education within England’s state schools is an ongoing concern. Despite clear evidence of its benefits, music remains under-prioritised in the curriculum, largely due to funding constraints and policy changes, such as the introduction of the English Baccalaureate (EBacc).

Between 2013 and 2023, there was a 30% decrease in students doing music GCSEs and a 43% decrease in doing A-Levels. These alarming statistics raise an essential question: Can playing music boost students’ academic success?

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Teaching Children

Teaching Children Financial Skills in a Creative Way

Teaching financial literacy in schools is about more than numbers; it’s about equipping students with practical life skills they can carry into adulthood. With the rising importance of understanding how to save, spend, and share money wisely, educators are seeking ways to make these lessons informative and engaging.

Creative classroom activities and competitions, like the Money Heroes competition, are proving to be a game-changer in bringing financial education to life.

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Attention spans in the classroom

How can teachers develop attention spans in the classroom?

In the age of TikTok and Reels, pupils lose interest very quickly as they have become accustomed to short, sharp entertainment and information. Teachers face a considerable challenge to keep pupils on track and focused in the classroom.

Poor attention leads to a lack of learning and retention, so finding out more about proven techniques that can be used to optimise pupils’ attention is essential.

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Mastering Adaptive Teaching

Mastering Adaptive Teaching: Strategies for Success

Adaptive teaching is a powerful approach that empowers teachers to tailor their methods to meet the diverse needs of their students.

While it may seem abstract, implementing adaptive teaching can significantly enhance classroom engagement and learning outcomes.

This blog will explore actionable strategies and insights into adaptive teaching, drawing from established teacher standards and recent academic research.

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