The Education Brief: Wednesday 17 December 2025 - Top stories include:

• A safeguarding review triggered national dispute over strict behaviour policies.

• Headteachers are warning of an “exponential rise” in AI-generated parental complaints.

• Google DeepMind is developing a DfE-approved version of its Gemini chatbot.

• The DfE will scrap 46 free school projects, with a further 58 special and AP schools left in limbo.

• Ofqual confirms on-screen GCSE and A-level exams could begin appearing by 2030.

HEP Updates:

• Book sessions on the https://hepbookinghub.co.uk/ 

• Attend our SEND Conference: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/hep-inclusion-send-conference-2026-neurodiversity-in-the-classroom-tickets-1758147629889

• WalkThrus Coaching course: https://walkthrus.co.uk/latest-events/coaching-with-walkthrus-summer-te-kakwd-r2264

• WalkThrus Coaching One Day Masterclass: https://walkthrus.co.uk/latest-events/coaching-with-walkthrus-summer-te-kakwd-r2264-42yn4

Watching - https://haringeyeducationpartnership.co.uk/north-london-shines-in-ks2-attainment-data/

Listening - https://www.audible.co.uk/pd/The-Snowflake-Myth-Audiobook/B0G4NN8FSM

Reading - https://www.heraldscotland.com/news/25670374.new-resource-developed-help-tackle-misogyny-schools/

AI Tool - https://vimeo.com/1136057496

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Music by Slo Pony⁠