The Government is launching a major pilot scheme to explore the impact of restricting social media use among teenagers. Three hundred young people will take part, divided into groups experiencing different measures: complete bans on certain apps, overnight digital curfews, or limits of one hour per day. A fourth group will act as a control for comparison. The initiative aims to gather real-world evidence as ministers consider whether to introduce stronger regulations, including a potential ban on social media for under-16s, similar to proposals in other countries. Families involved will be interviewed to assess effects on sleep, mental health, schoolwork, and family life, while researchers will also study whether young people find ways to bypass restrictions. Alongside this, a larger independent study involving four thousand students will examine how reducing use of social media affects wellbeing and behaviour. While many support tighter controls to protect children, others argue that responsibility should also lie with technology companies to create safer platforms. The findings will help shape future policy decisions aimed at safeguarding young people in an increasingly digital world. See also

The Covid-19 pandemic continues to impact UK education, with schools managing increased special educational needs (SEN), exclusions, absenteeism, and a widening attainment gap. One primary school teacher reports a notable rise in speech, language, and social interaction difficulties among five and six-year-olds. She attributes this to the lockdowns, where children missed key developmental experiences. 'It's a daily battle’, she says. Cori Bateman, CEO of the Pioneer Learning Trust, confirms the post-2020 rise in additional needs has shifted teaching methods. Techniques once only  for individuals are now used class-wide, including sensory gadgets, breathing exercises, and emotion-based activities. Bateman insists this inclusivity doesn't disadvantage other pupils. Secondary schools face challenges too. One principal has noted a rise in exclusions and persistent absenteeism, with socio-economic disparities amplified during the pandemic. When pupils reflect on the disruption, Freya, 16, describes the isolation of online learning, while Max, 17, feels his year group was relatively fortunate. Sarah, 17, recalls remote education as overwhelming. Some experts warn of a widened attainment gap with effects until 2035. The Department for Education aims to prepare more children for school by age five.