Educational setting status form – request for feedback

We are looking for volunteers to test improvements to our educational settings status online form and provide feedback over the coming days and weeks. We are looking to speak to those who collate the information and complete the daily form through short remote sessions.

If you are able to help, please send your name and contact details to:

DFE.EDUCATIONSETTINGSTATUS@education.gov.uk

Actions for higher education providers during the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak

We have published guidance for higher education providers on the Government support package for universities and students, and the process for clearing and student number controls during the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak.

The guidance can be found here:

https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/actions-for-he-providers-during-the-coronavirus-outbreak

Students should also read the student guide to coronavirus (COVID-19) published by the Office for Students for information about securing a place at university, the clearing process, accommodation, and finance.

The student guide can be found here:

https://www.officeforstudents.org.uk/for-students/student-guide-to-coronavirus/questions-and-answers/

New virtual cyber initiative for teenagers

The Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport has announced an online initiative that aims to inspire school pupils to work in the cyber security sector through a range of extracurricular activities including online classes. This provides the opportunity to learn and develop the important skills required for future jobs in areas like cyber security from home.

Full details of this announcement and the resources available can be found here:

https://www.gov.uk/government/news/new-virtual-cyber-school-gives-teens-chance-to-try-out-as-cyber-security-agents-from-home

Department for Education coronavirus helpline – Friday 8 May Bank Holiday opening hours

The Department for Education coronavirus helpline is available to answer questions about COVID-19 relating to education and children’s social care.

Phone: 0800 046 8687

The helpline will remain open over the early May Bank Holiday weekend for staff, parents and young people as follows:

10am to 4pm – Friday, Saturday and Sunday

Our standard opening hours will resume on Monday 11 May:

8am to 6pm – Monday to Friday
10am to 4pm – Saturday and Sunday

If you work in a school, please have your unique reference number (URN or UK PRN) available when calling the helpline.