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Will England’s new reading test for secondary pupils be useful?

All secondary-age school pupils in year eight (aged 12 and 13) in England will be required by the government to take a reading test. The declared purpose is to help drive up reading standards so that “everyone can thrive”. Stephen Gorard, Professor in our School of Education, explores whether this additional test is a good idea.
A group of children in school uniform sitting round a table reading with a female teacher in a white shirt

Raila Odinga: the man who changed Kenya without ever ruling it

Professor Justin Willis, in our Department of History, joins fellow researchers in looking at the life of prominent Kenyan politician Raila Amollo Odinga following his death. They say Odinga’s “absence will generate a political vacuum that other leaders will struggle to fill”.
Raila Odinga speaking at an event. He is wearing a suit and tie and standing in front of a backdrop which reads Chatham House.

The new archbishop of Canterbury has already made history – but she has huge challenges ahead

Dr William Crozier, Duns Scotus Assistant Professor in Franciscan Studies, in our Department of Theology and Religion, discusses the challenges facing the new Archbishop of Canterbury.
A wider view of the cloister at Canterbury Cathedral

Specialised teachers can make mainstream schools better for children with special educational needs

Dr Johny Daniel, Associate Professor in our School of Education, explores what the UK government could do to ensure that children with special educational needs receive the support they need in mainstream schools.
A female teacher in a classroom leaning over a schoolboy to turn a page of a book as they both smile

Plants are incredibly sensitive – what we learned about their response system could help protect humans

Dr Miguel de Lucas and his team has built a detailed cell‑by‑cell map showing how plants use post‑translational modifications, especially sumoylation, to detect and respond to stresses such as drought, salinity or pathogens.
Plants