Starring Richard Branson, Young Minds, cyber security, University of Leeds and more: ETIH rolls out the biggest education technology news stories of the week
This week, we’ve gathered a selection of top stories, innovations, and insights to keep you ahead of the curve as we race towards the half term break.
Let’s dive in:
How teachers and parents can approach the call for evidence on curriculum reform
In an exclusive for ETIH, Lucy Kirkham, Head of STEM at Save My Exams , explores how the ongoing curriculum review in the UK offers a pivotal opportunity for parents and teachers to shape the future of education.
The recent launch of the curriculum review in the UK presents a unique opportunity for teachers, parents, and students to influence the future of education.
The government’s call for evidence aims to gather insight and opinions from a widespread collection of stakeholders on how to reshape the curriculum to meet modern demands, and so it is essential for those stakeholders to engage thoughtfully.
Richard Branson and Made By Dyslexia launch free University of Dyslexic Thinking
Richard Branson has announced the launch of the University of Dyslexic Thinking (DyslexicU ), a free online educational platform aimed at teaching Dyslexic Thinking skills to people around the world.
DyslexicU is a collaboration between the Virgin Group founder and the charitable organisation Made By Dyslexia, and the courses are hosted by The Open University.
Educational institutions face increased data breach risks amid surge in UK attacks
Educational institutions across the UK are increasingly vulnerable to data breaches as more cyber attacks and poor data handling practices expose sensitive personal information.
Schools and universities, which hold large amounts of personal data, are becoming prime targets for cybercriminals, according to Ben Marsh , Class Underwriter at Chaucer Group a global speciality (re)insurance group.
Speaking exclusively with ETIH, Marsh explained the heightened risks faced by educational institutions.
University of Leeds and Perlego partner to provide unlimited digital library access
The University of Leeds has partnered with Perlego, a digital learning platform, to provide students with unlimited access to academic and professional books.
Leeds is the first Russell Group university to adopt Perlego, giving nearly 40,000 students access to an extensive digital library at the start of the new academic year.
Gauthier Van Malderen, Founder and CEO of Perlego, said: “The University of Leeds' partnership with Perlego is an exciting milestone for both us and the broader world of education, shaping the future of higher learning together."
Inversity and University of Liverpool Maths School Launch AI education programme for local youth
In a move to transform AI education in Liverpool, Inversity, a startup focused on practical AI learning, has partnered with the University of Liverpool Maths School to provide students aged 14-19 with the skills needed to thrive in an AI-driven world.
Dr James Kuht MBE, CEO and co-founder of Inversity, highlighted the importance of this initiative, stating:
"AI is a powerful tool for addressing society's most pressing challenges. By equipping Liverpool's youth with the skills to harness AI responsibly, we're not just educating students – we're empowering the next generation of problem-solvers."
Asda launches ‘Asda Heroes’ programme to educate primary school students on food waste
British supermarket, Asda , has launched its Asda Heroes programme to educate primary school students on the importance of food waste and responsible consumption.
The initiative, which recently began with Year 4 and Year 5 students in Leeds, encourages young people to take action on food waste by developing community projects aligned with global sustainability goals.
Sarah Steel, Future Talent Specialist - School Engagement at Asda, commented on the programme’s launch in a Linkedin post:
"We launched our primary school programme, Asda Heroes, with Years 4 and 5 in Leeds. The programme's aim is to educate young people about food waste so they can create meaningful impact in their local communities by developing projects that tackle hunger and responsible consumption.”
M&S and YoungMinds reach £2 million milestone to support young people’s mental health
Marks and Spencer has reached a significant fundraising milestone in its partnership with UK charity YoungMinds, raising over £2 million to support young people’s mental health.
YoungMinds’ CEO, Laura Bunt, noted that mental health support for young people is becoming increasingly critical, particularly in schools.
“More young people than ever are struggling with their mental health. Schools and teachers can play a crucial role in supporting young people and we know many are calling for more resources to be able to better help their pupils."
Victoria McKenzie-Gould, Corporate Affairs Director at M&S, said:
“A year ago, we announced our three-year partnership with YoungMinds and it’s been an incredible year! We’re so proud that we’ve already raised over £2m of our £5m goal, absolutely smashing our first year target!"
Girls Who Code launches cyber education campaign to promote cybersecurity awareness in K-12 students
The Cyber Education Alliance, a network of 20 organisations led by the nonprofit Girls Who Code, has launched the Get Cyber Smart campaign.
Dr. Tarika Barrett, Ph.D. , CEO of Girls Who Code, emphasised the importance of early education in cybersecurity for all children.
The campaign is supported by a wide range of organisations, including Black Girls Code, Code.org and Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency.
“Empowering K-12 students with the knowledge and skills to protect themselves from cybersecurity threats is not just about their safety—it's about ensuring they have the confidence and ability to explore the digital world securely from a young age.”
