Key education guidance updates you need to know now

From plans to narrow the digital divide in schools and colleges, to the continuation of the national school breakfast club programme, there's plenty on the horizon for the education sector in terms of legal guidance.

Jill Donabie, partner, and Ryan Douglas, paralegal, both in our education team, summarise some of the key recent education guidance updates.

1.      Education and Skills Funding Agency disbanded

In September 2024, the Department for Education (DfE) announced that the Education and Skills Funding Agency (ESFA) would close, and its functions would be moved into the Department for Education. 

The ESFA was officially disbanded on 31 March 2025.

DfE is now the single point of contact for financial management and support for the entire education sector.

Read the original announcement.

2.      Narrowing the digital divide in schools and colleges

The Government has launched a consultation on its plans to require schools to drive digital standards.

The launch coincides with an announcement of an extra £45 million investment to improve connectivity in classrooms.

There is a short amount of time left to provide feedback, with consultation closing on 23 May 2025.

See the announcement and find out information on how to participate in the consultation.

3.      Great British Energy to work with schools

The Energy Secretary has announced that the first major project for Great British Energy (the new publicly-owned energy company in the UK) will be to work with schools to help them save money on their energy bills.

Under the proposals, in line with a £200 million investment, Great British Energy will immediately begin working with schools (and other organisations) to install solar panels, build local clean power and bring down energy bills.

Read more in the announcement.

4.      National school breakfast club programme

The national school breakfast programme is set to continue for the 2025 to 2026 academic year.

All participating schools receive a 75% subsidy for the food and delivery costs of their breakfast club provision.

Find further information on the programme.

5.      Estate Management competency framework

DfE has published guidance on the functions, skills, knowledge and training expected of those staff hired to manage the school estate. 

Read the guidance today.

6.      Making changes to Maintained Schools

DfE has published updated guidance on making prescribed alterations to maintained schools. Prescribed alterations range from changing the age range of your school to adding or removing classroom space.

See the updated guidance today.

7.      Service pupils in schools

DfE and the Ministry of Defence have released new non-statutory guidance to assist schools with how they can address the educational needs of pupils with parents or carers in the armed forces.

Access the non-statutory guidance.