As SATs approach, ensuring your pupils have the right tools to succeed in reading is essential. DreamBox Reading Plus is here to support you in developing proficient, confident readers who are well-prepared for their SATs.

Personalised learning for every pupil

Every pupil has unique strengths and areas for improvement. DreamBox Reading Plus uses an adaptive learning approach, ensuring that each pupil is placed on a personalised learning path based on their individual needs. Through our InSight Assessment, pupils are matched with age-appropriate texts that target their specific skill gaps, helping them progress at their own pace.

Building fluency for SATs success

Fluency in reading is key to success in the SATs, and DreamBox Reading Plus places a strong emphasis on developing this skill. Our patented Guided Window helps pupils read with greater focus and fluency by guiding their eyes across the page at a pace suited to their individual level. As pupils’ fluency improves, the pace of the window increases, fostering independent reading and enhancing their comprehension.

Evidence of progress in the classroom

We’ve partnered with Derby Research School and Spencer Academies Trust to study the effectiveness of Reading Plus. The results showed:

• Pupils using Reading Plus made more significant progress than non-users.
• Pupil Premium students using Reading Plus made 97% more progress.
• EAL and SEND pupils also made significant gains in their reading skills.

Read the full study here.

Track progress and address gaps early

Reading Plus gives you valuable insights into your pupils’ reading progress all year long. With built-in assessments, you can quickly identify and address any skill gaps before SATs. Our KS2 Skills Report allows you to track progress against the specific reading domains needed for SATs (inference, retrieval, summarise), providing the guidance you need to support each pupil effectively.

Free support to help you along the way

Our Customer Support Team is available to assist you throughout the year with training and support – all free as part of your subscription.

Book a 4-week trial to see the impact

We’re offering you the chance to try DreamBox Reading Plus for four weeks, completely free of charge, so you can see its impact on your pupils’ progress before making any decisions.

Book your free trial here or learn more about DreamBox Reading Plus here.

Educational institutions, tasked with safeguarding sensitive data and critical systems, find themselves at cybersecurity impasse, often unprepared for the scale and complexity of the threats they face – and the data proves this.

According to Sophos’ State of Ransomware in Education report, 63% of lower education and 66% of higher education institutions were hit by ransomware in the past year. The cost of recovery paints an even bleaker picture, skyrocketing to an average of £2.98 million per attack.

Despite these alarming figures, many schools and universities continue to operate without the tools that will equip them to deal with the ever-evolving threat landscape.

Higher Stakes, Worsening Threats
Many education organizations have a sprawling, disconnected IT estate featuring a variety of devices and computers. As new devices are continually added to a network, potential threats are created.

But in the education space, a connected network of devices isn’t limited to just desktop computers and local servers. Any device that connects to the school’s Wi-Fi network, be that laptop, mobile phone, or interactive printer counts. If just one of these devices is not secure and up to date, threat actors have a vulnerability to exploit.

For universities, the stakes go beyond operational disruption if a cyber criminal does gain access. Reputation is business critical, especially when attracting international students who account for significant revenue streams. One lone cyberattack can compromise sensitive research data and intellectual property, expose personal information, and erode trust—issues that take years to repair.

Meanwhile, schools and colleges face their own challenges. Limited IT staff often rely on basic endpoint solutions that struggle to keep pace with today’s sophisticated threats. Rising operational costs, including higher energy bills and reduced government funding, add further financial strain, leaving IT teams scrambling to protect systems with fewer resources.

The problem is clear: educational institutions need robust cybersecurity solutions that address these threats without exceeding their budgets. The solution lies in scalable, proactive, and collaborative approaches to cybersecurity.

Staying Ahead of Adversaries
A reactive approach to cybersecurity has never worked. With 95% of ransomware attackers attempting to compromise backups—and 71% succeeding—schools and universities must shift strategies.

Some practical steps that can be taken include:

• Regular risk assessments to identify vulnerabilities before they can be exploited
• Comprehensive training programs for staff and students to not only recognize and phishing attempts and other social engineering tactics, but to know how to alert security teams early
• Incident response planning, so IT teams are prepared to act quickly and effectively during an attack

Leveraging threat intelligence tools can also provide educational institutions with real-time insights into emerging threats. But the tools need to extend beyond just threat detection and identification, aspects such as automatic incident response, root cause analysis to identify underlying issues, and security posture recommendations all help to improve an organization’s overall security posture.

Navigating Threats with Scalable Solutions
Schools and universities are not one-size-fits-all operations. Their cybersecurity needs vary widely based on size, infrastructure, and budget. Scalable security solutions are essential to address these diverse requirements while adapting to evolving threats.

By partnering with education-focused vendors, institutions can deploy tailored and flexible protections that strike a balance between affordability and effectiveness. These solutions should integrate seamlessly with existing tools, enabling schools and universities to maximize the value of their current investments.

For many educational institutions, building an in-house security team is simply not feasible. The cost of recruiting, training, and retaining skilled cybersecurity professionals is prohibitive, especially amid a global talent shortage. This is where Managed Service Providers (MSPs) can make a significant impact.

MSPs that specialize in the education sector offer cost-effective solutions and ongoing support, enabling schools and universities to access the latest cybersecurity tools and expertise without breaking the bank. However, educational organizations have specific challenges other businesses may face.

Most schools are closed on weekends, and it is rare that IT teams will be working on site throughout holiday periods, which makes 24/7 threat monitoring and automation an attractive solution. This reduces the time IT teams need to spend on security, which can then be reallocated to improving the overall IT experience for students.

The Path Forward: Achieving Robust Cybersecurity on a Budget
The numbers speak for themselves: only 30% of ransomware victims in education fully recovered within a week, and median ransom payments reached £5.2 million for lower education and £3.5 million for higher education organisations. These figures underscore the urgency for schools and universities to act.

To safeguard their systems without straining budgets, educational institutions should:

• Adopt scalable, flexible security solutions that grow with their needs.
• Invest in proactive measures like risk assessments and training to reduce vulnerabilities.
• Partner with MSPs for affordable access to advanced tools and expertise.

Considering the specific threats – phishing scams targeting teachers, sprawling IT networks, various devices regularly connecting to overburdened systems – schools and universities need support. By focusing on protecting their data, systems, and reputation—schools can remain secure in the face of both growing threats and tightening budgets.

Bodet Time is exhibiting at the Bett Show this week. Visit us on Stand SH10 in the Bett Hall to see how we can help you improve safety and communication for your students and staff.

We provide dedicated solutions for educational settings, whether primary school, secondary school or college, covering:

• Lockdown alerts: increase safety for everyone on your premises by broadcasting unique lockdown alerts, and ensure your school is prepared for the introduction of Martyn’s Law
• Class change, bell and PA systems: ensure effective communication and keep classes running to time
• Synchronised clocks: make sure time is accurate and synchronised with our wired or wireless clocks and clock systems

Choose the solution that meets your needs, with our help. For a demonstration, and a chat with our friendly team, visit us on Stand SH10.

To learn more about our synchronised time and alert solutions, visit https://www.bodet-time.co.uk

LapSafe® is excited to announce our presence at this year’s event! Join us at stand ND50 to explore our award-winning self-service smart lockers and storage and charging solutions. Discover how our Smart Lockers, trolleys, and cabinets enable educational institutions to:

• Seamlessly loan fully charged devices 24/7 without staff involvement.
• Support Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) initiatives effectively.

Shortlisted for the Bett 2025 Awards!

We’re proud to share that LapSafe® has been shortlisted for the Ahead by Bett – Further and Higher Education Technology Award at this year’s event. This recognition highlights our commitment to delivering innovative, sustainable, and customer-focused solutions that revolutionise education’s management of technology.

Live Demonstrations of Smart Technology

Experience our innovative Smart Lockers powered by the ONARKEN® platform. This highly secure, cloud-based software is customisable and designed to streamline workflows such as:

• Device Loaning: Automate the loan and return of devices.
• Drop Off and Collect: Facilitate secure, contactless exchanges.
• IT Help Desk Management: Enable rapid IT device repairs or replacements.
• Personal Lockers: Offer flexible storage for hybrid working environments.

ONARKEN® integrates seamlessly with leading third-party applications, ensuring a smooth campus-wide rollout tailored to your needs.

For those not requiring Smart Lockers, LapSafe® offers a broad range of storage and charging solutions, including mobile trolleys, desk units, and standalone lockers. These are available with various locking options, from simple keyed locks to advanced electronic systems, adaptable to any setting.

Introducing the ChargeLite USB-C Range

We’re proud to unveil the upgraded ChargeLite USB-C range. Equipped with the latest USB-C Power Delivery (PD) technology, it ensures fast, efficient charging for modern devices. The range includes trolleys, desk units, and standalone lockers, designed with flexibility and reliability.

Key Features of ChargeLite USB-C:

• USB-C Power Delivery (PD): Provides rapid charging for various devices.
• LED Indicator Charging Cables: Confirm secure connections at a glance.
• LED Charge Status Repeater: Displays device charging progress.

Join Us at Bett UK 2025

Visit us at stand ND50 to explore LapSafe®’s full suite of self-service solutions. Our team will be ready to:

• Answer your questions.
• Discuss tailored solutions.
• Provide live demonstrations of our innovative technologies.

Secure your tickets today at bettshow.com. We look forward to welcoming you!

Explore an immersive showcase of future-ready EdTech solutions, software advancements, and innovative displays that enhance teaching and learning. Experience ViewSonic’s wide range of products alongside the latest AI-driven software, designed to empower learners of all ages. ViewSonic will also host educational talks and hands-on workshops, sharing how these solutions inspire learning beyond boundaries. Find ViewSonic at ExCeL London, Stand #NK10, from 22–24 January 2025.

Engagement is the key to unlocking pupil success. It can transform lessons into joyful learning experiences and turn passive listeners into active participants. But keeping pupils engaged isn’t always easy. Enter Seesaw, the innovative learning experience platform transforming how primary pupils, teachers, and families connect to create dynamic, engaging learning environments.

Seesaw has become a trusted companion in schools across the UK, empowering over 1.4 million educators, pupils, and families through a digital platform that makes learning joyful and authentic. Seesaw helps teachers make learning accessible for every learner, and elevates each pupil’s educational journey.

Why Seesaw?

Seesaw is more than just a digital portfolio or task management solution; it’s a hub for creativity, collaboration, and communication. Here’s how Seesaw enhances engagement in the primary classroom:

1. Active Learning with Multimodal Tools
Research shows pupils are more engaged when they have hands-on opportunities to learn. Seesaw’s multimodal tools enable pupils to showcase their knowledge in creative ways. They can draw, record videos, create voice notes, or use multimedia tools to explain their thinking and showcase their best work.

For example, a Year 3 pupil working on fractions might take a photo of and annotate a pie to show parts of a whole, while a Year 6 pupil studying poetry can create a video recitation with personal reflections. These varied approaches cater to all learning styles and give every pupil a chance to shine.

2. Pupil Choice and Ownership
Engagement increases when pupils feel ownership over their learning. With Seesaw, they can curate digital portfolios, highlighting their best work and reflecting on their progress. This fosters pride and motivation while teaching essential skills like self-assessment and goal-setting.

3. Real-Time Feedback and Collaboration
Seesaw helps teachers receive instant insight into pupil understanding, provide real-time feedback, and adjust instruction. Pupils no longer have to wait days to understand how they’re doing.

Collaborative features encourage pupils to interact constructively. They can like, comment on, or ask questions about each other’s work, fostering a vibrant learning community where everyone feels valued.

Strengthening the Home-School Connection

Engagement doesn’t end when the school day is over. With Seesaw, families play an active role in their child’s education. Parents and carers receive realtime updates on their child’s progress, including photos, videos, and notes shared directly from the classroom.

Imagine the delight of a parent seeing their child’s creative writing project or a video explaining a science experiment, all accessible with a single tap. Seesaw sparks meaningful conversations about learning at home, reinforcing classroom lessons and supporting pupil growth.

Supporting Teachers Every Step of the Way

For educators, balancing lesson planning, marking, and pupil engagement can feel overwhelming. Seesaw simplifies these tasks by offering:

• Intuitive Workflows: Assign, review, and organise pupil work.
• Rich Resource Libraries: Access over 8,000 pre-made lessons aligned with the curriculum or customise your own to meet your class’s needs.
• Progress Insights: Track pupil performance at a glance, identifying strengths and areas for improvement.

This allows teachers to focus on what they do best: inspiring and supporting their pupils.

Proven Results

Research has shown that using Seesaw for in-class instruction and family engagement leads to better pupil outcomes (Learn Platform, Seesaw ESSA Evidence Level III Report, 2023).

Seesaw has also been recognised by the most reputable global educational and edtech organisations, including certifications for research-based design and learner variability from Digital Promise, the ISTE Seal, and the CAST UDL Certification, which acknowledges the inclusive, accessible design of the Seesaw platform.

Seesaw is proud to be a finalist in 2024 for the Education Today as a SEND Resources Supplier of the Year and for the BETT Awards in the Primary Digital Learning – Wider Curriculum category.

Start Your Seesaw Journey Today

Seesaw helps teachers provide every primary pupil with joyful and connected learning experiences that lay the foundation for success in life.

Visit seesaw.com to learn more.

Education managers and designers play a crucial role in crafting environments that prioritise wellbeing, productivity, and comfort. Indoor air quality (IAQ) within educational settings is a critical consideration that significantly impacts the health and performance of both students and staff. Those working in the education sector play a crucial role in shaping learning environments that prioritise optimal air quality, ensuring a conducive and healthy atmosphere for academic pursuits.

Research shows that the majority of the UK public (87%) and education leaders (98%) believe that air quality is important in education spaces. With that in mind, in this article, Dyson shares why implementing air purification systems within educational settings should be a priority.

Understanding Indoor Air Quality
With people spending up to 90% of their time indoors, indoor air quality is a universal concern that impacts people across all sectors and in any shared space. Pollutants or Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) are emitted from numerous sources including fuels, flooring, cleaning products, and even soft furnishings. These micro pollutants are impossible to see but can have an impact on our health, wellbeing and productivity.

Short-term exposure to poor indoor air quality can potentially lead heightened fatigue, difficulty concentrating, and an overall sense of discomfort. Those with respiratory conditions such as asthma may notice an exacerbation of symptoms, including coughing and shortness of breath. Additionally, poor indoor air quality can contribute to the spread of viruses and respiratory infections among occupants.

Global Action Plan, a leading charity, brings attention to the alarming statistic that almost all UK schools are in areas above WHO air pollution limits. The UK government has officially acknowledged poor air quality as the largest environmental risk to public health in the country. This underscores the urgency for educators to prioritise IAQ initiatives in school design and ongoing maintenance.

This data underscores the critical importance of proactively embracing available technologies for air purification in classrooms.

Choosing Technology for Cleaner Educational Environments
When decision-makers are considering suitable technology for education spaces, it is essential to consider various features and technologies that are catered to large, shared spaces which have distinct requirements. For example, opting for quiet and powerful purifiers, such as Dyson’s Big + Quiet, are particularly well-suited to the educational environment as they reduce exposure to indoor air pollution, without disruption.

By introducing purification solutions, it is possible to address risks associated with poor indoor air quality, ensuring that students and staff can thrive in an environment that facilitates both health and productivity. A collaborative effort between education managers and designers holds the potential to create spaces that prioritise the wellbeing of all, fostering an optimal learning environment.

To learn more on how to create cleaner, and more hygienic shared spaces across educational spaces, visit Dyson technology’s business hub and book a call:

https://www.dyson.co.uk/commercial/air-treatment

Teaching is a complex craft, blending various strategies and approaches to help students master content and build skills. This is especially true in online education, where engagement and interaction play a pivotal role in a student’s success. Online teaching shares similarities with traditional classroom settings but also presents unique challenges and opportunities.

As the leading online alternative provision specialist, Academy21 is committed to providing flexible, tailored online education that supports every student in reigniting their love for learning. Our approach is centred on understanding each student’s unique needs and ensuring they are fully supported throughout their learning journey. With this goal in mind, here are some of the approaches we adopt to ensure our students learn effectively and, importantly, are engaged in lessons:

1. Inclusive and Accessible Learning
Academy21 ensures that all students, regardless of their circumstances or learning requirements, have access to the resources and support necessary for academic progress. Our courses are designed to be easily accessible, with learning materials that students can use at their own pace, enabling them to engage with the content in a way that suits them.

Through personalised learning pathways, scaffolded resources, and an intuitive platform with everything students need to navigate live lessons and schoolwork, we ensure every student can engage in their studies. We also have an expert SEN team on hand to answer any query or offer additional support.

2. Flexibility to Meet Every Student’s Needs
Flexibility is at the heart of Academy21. We recognise that each student has different schedules and learning preferences, which is why our online platform allows them to learn at their own pace. Students can revisit lessons and access resources on-demand, taking the time they need to master each topic before progressing. This flexibility also supports students in balancing their education with other commitments, such as family responsibilities or medical appointments.

Plus, our online environment is ideal for a gradual reintegration into mainstream schooling, as it enables hybrid learning set-ups where some lessons are taken online and others in the physical school environment. This means students get the support they need but can still keep in touch with teachers and friends in their traditional school setting, making it easier to reintegrate fully when the time comes.

3. Data-Driven Decisions
At Academy21, we use data to create personalised learning experiences for each student. Regular assessments and real-time feedback enable us to identify areas where students may need additional support, ensuring teachers can provide targeted assistance and prioritise areas that need more work.

By monitoring progress and adjusting lesson plans as needed, we ensure students are on track to achieve the best academic outcomes for them. All of this data is also shared with the school so they can monitor their student’s progress carefully and share key milestones with parents as well.

4. Engaging and Interactive Learning
Engagement is key to success, especially in an online environment. Academy21 uses a variety of interactive tools and teaching methods to make learning engaging and collaborative. Interactivity is achieved through highquality audiovisual content, multimedia resources, augmented reality content, and collaborative planning tools. There are also various chat pods and polls that enable group work and encourage active participation.

Our vast net of interactive elements is fully controlled by our expert teachers, who are well versed in adaptive teaching and tailor each lesson to support every student’s need.

Personalised Support for Every Student
Every Academy21 student receives personalised support tailored to their specific needs. Whether they require assistance with a particular subject, emotional support, or help managing learning challenges, our team is committed to providing the necessary guidance and resources. Aside from our broad curriculum for Key Stages 3 and 4, we also provide a range of dedicated solutions to support unique use cases, such as GCSE resits and early intervention, as well as academic and wellbeing support courses as part of our Enhanced Services offer.

We understand that education is not a one-size-fits-all approach. That’s why we aim to support students academically, emotionally, and personally, helping them overcome challenges and achieve the best outcomes for them.

Creating a nurturing, stimulating, and sustainable environment for early years is paramount, and fully understood by TG Escapes. Their modular timber frame net-zero buildings seamlessly blend nature inspired biophilic design with cutting-edge technology, to create unique and enriching spaces.

Biophilic Design: Bringing the Outdoors In
TG Escapes’ buildings follow biophilic design principles, incorporating natural elements to create a calming and inspiring atmosphere. Large windows and glass doors along with the use of sun-pipes, maximise natural light whilst offering views of the surrounding environment, and the use of natural materials like wood creates a warm and inviting ambiance. This connection to nature has been shown to reduce stress, improve cognitive function, and enhance creativity in children, fostering a positive learning environment.

Modular Construction: Flexibility and Speed
The modular nature of TG Escapes’ buildings offers unparalleled flexibility for nurseries and early years settings. Whether you need a small, intimate space or a larger, multi-room facility, the adaptable system can be tailored to meet your specific requirements. Furthermore, the off-site construction process significantly reduces build time, minimising disruption and allowing your nursery to open its doors sooner.

Sustainable Solutions for a Greener Future
TG Escapes is committed to sustainability, and all their buildings are designed net-zero in operation keeping running costs low. Constructed using sustainably sourced timber, the carbon footprint is low and features such as solar panels, living roofs, rainwater harvesting systems, and high-performance recycled insulation further enhance biodiversity and eco-credentials. By choosing a TG Escapes building, nurseries and schools can demonstrate their commitment to environmental responsibility and provide a healthy and sustainable learning environment loved by children, staff and parents.

Benefits Beyond the Building

TG Escapes’ buildings offer a range of benefits:

• Improved Air Quality: Adaptive ventilation and the use of non-toxic materials ensure a healthy indoor environment, promoting children’s respiratory health and well-being.
• Increased Natural Light: Ample natural light has been shown to improve mood, alertness, and cognitive performance in children, creating a more conducive learning environment.
• Connection to Nature: Access to outdoor areas via covered canopies, and views of nature, encourage children to engage with the natural world, fostering a connection to the environment and facilitating outdoor learning.

Inspiring Spaces for Learning and Play
TG Escapes’ buildings provide a versatile and inspiring backdrop for a variety of early years activities. The open-plan layouts can be easily adapted to create different learning zones, while the connection to nature encourages play and exploration.

Fully Inclusive Service
The experienced team at TG Escapes have delivered over 800 buildings UK wide. They take care of everything offering a fully inclusive design and build service including planning permission and groundworks. Their in-house architects will provide you with a free design specific to your site so you can easily understand what can be achieved and their build teams have years of experience constructing in sensitive education settings.

Paper Lane Nursery in Paulton, Somerset
This recent project funded under Section 106, is a 60-place facility for under-fives and is part of a wider redevelopment of former commercial land, which has brought new homes to the area. TG Escapes was involved from the early stages of the project following a recommendation to the developer Kenninghall from a previous TG Escapes customer.

Nursery Director Victoria Westwell says “They pay great attention to detail, have responsive staff and deliver an excellent build that I cannot fault. The finish is truly superb. Would highly recommend their services.”

For more information:

0800 917 7726
info@tgescapes.co.uk
www.tgescapes.co.uk.

Are you interested in evidence-based reading strategies, innovative literacy solutions and learning from renowned education experts?

Reading Solutions UK invites you to register for the International Reading Conference, the transformative online CPD event that inspires educators to empower students.

On June 10^th, 11^th, and 12^th 2025, this free conference will bring together education thought leaders, literacy experts, and EdTech innovators to share strategies for fostering a love of reading and improving literacy outcomes across Key Stage 2 through to Key Stage 4.

Secure your spot today: https://events.zoom.us/ev/AvqXkvhMt_6PQAQD05DgHWalnyDQKlUPqt4inYhNR7OOgX_btbVY~AkdcmeRRAt49Pd25yZtGeUlH5r8KCWoceeSn6zVIYklWVgZEPCs1vfEZEw

Hosted by Baasit Siddiqui, Director of Siddiqui Education and TV personality, the event offers actionable insights and practical tools to:

• Cultivate a reading culture within your school, academy or trust.
• Ensure students continue accelerating their reading growth by feeling motivated and empowered to read.
• Utilise adaptive technology to develop digital reading strategies for success.
• Discover innovative approaches to nurture a thriving reading environment.

Past conferences have included distinguished speakers such as:

• Michael Rosen – Writer and performance poet for children and adults.
• Professor Teresa Cremin – DfE Reading for Pleasure Expert.
• Jonathan Douglas CBE, Hon FRSL – Chief Executive of the National Literacy Trust.
• Sarah Green – The Education Endowment Foundation’s Content Specialist for Literacy (2022).
• Mark Anderson – Founder at ICT Evangelist. Award-winning AI and Digital Strategist.

Are you a senior leader, multi-academy trust leader, teacher, teaching assistant or librarian? Then this event is perfect for you! Sign up for the International Reading Conference 2025 here: https://www.readingsolutionsuk.co.uk/irc25/

About the organisers

Reading Solutions UK is the home of DreamBox Reading Plus, the adaptive online reading development programme that identifies reading gaps and provides personalised instruction to close them – all while saving teachers’ time.

Guided by the most prominent reading and pedagogical research from the last 30 years, Reading Plus is designed to develop fluency, vocabulary, and comprehension – bridging the gap between learning to read and reading to learn.

Schools can pilot the programme for free for four weeks to test its impact.

Learn more about Reading Plus and the pilot offer here: https://www.readingsolutionsuk.co.uk/reading-plus/