Weekly e-newsletter 17/04/2026
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Newsletter in Brief
Don’t miss: Government update – school food standards
A new national consultation proposes updated school food standards to improve pupil nutrition and energy across the school day, with NGA supporting boards to engage and prepare for implementation from September 2026.
Education news
Talk to the DfE about Key Stage 4 performance measures
The DfE is seeking views from governors and trustees on proposed KS4 accountability reforms, including changes to Progress 8 and new progress measures through a dedicated focus group.
Getting children ready for reception
New guidance and expanding Best Start Family Hubs aim to improve early transition into reception, supporting children and families with more joined-up early years provision.
First wave of SEND reform funding
Local authorities will receive targeted ‘Experts at Hand’ funding from June 2026 to strengthen specialist SEND support such as speech and language and occupational therapy in mainstream schools.
The parent perspective
New research from the Parent Voice Project explores what parents value in education and the challenges they experience, with two national reports now published.
Pupil mental health and wellbeing trial
A national programme is recruiting schools to trial a whole-school approach to improving pupil wellbeing, belonging, and engagement alongside academic outcomes.
NGA updates
NGA is recruiting consultants
NGA is expanding its consultancy team and is seeking experienced governance professionals with MAT expertise and training delivery skills.
Learning and development
ERGs: learn, reflect and improve
External Reviews of Governance help boards strengthen effectiveness and assurance, with the DfE recommending trusts undertake reviews every three years.
Upcoming events
Governors and trustees can join a series of spring events focused on leadership, networking, and trust governance development:
- 28 April – Governance Leadership Forum
- 29 April – Young Governors Network
- 5 May – Chairs Forum, Schools and Academies Show, London
- 7 May – MAT Conference, Schools and Academies Show, London