Author: Dave Carter

Education in England is set to undergo significant changes as the government plans to introduce new vocational courses known as V-levels for 16-year-olds. These new courses will replace Level 3 BTecs and other post-16 technical qualifications. The aim is to streamline the qualifications system which is currently referred to as a “confusing landscape.” With a… Continue reading New V-level courses to be brought in for students after GCSEs

An announcement by Health Secretary Wes Streeting has revealed an independent inquiry into the “repeated failures” in the maternity units of an NHS trust. The probe follows the tragic harm caused to babies and mothers due to potentially avoidable incidents. The focus of the inquiry will be on Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust (LTH), where… Continue reading Independent inquiry into Leeds maternity failings announced

In a recent address to the International Monetary Fund (IMF), Rachel Reeves, the Finance Minister, highlighted the lasting impact of the 2020 Brexit deal on the UK economy. She emphasized the detrimental effect on productivity, stating that the UK’s departure from the European Union has exacerbated the country’s productivity challenge. Reeves cited the Office for… Continue reading Chancellor blames Brexit deal for long-term damage to economy

British soldiers are set to receive new powers allowing them to shoot down drones that pose a threat to military bases. These plans, to be announced by Defence Secretary John Healey, aim to give troops the ability to respond quickly and decisively to potential dangers. The move comes after reports of mystery drone sightings at… Continue reading UK military to get powers to shoot down drones near bases

The recent revelation of sensitive military documents being stolen and published on the dark web by Russian hackers has prompted an investigation by the Ministry of Defence (MoD). The files reportedly contain details of eight RAF and Royal Navy bases, as well as names and emails of MoD staff. This breach was first reported by… Continue reading MoD probes claims Russian hackers stole files on bases

The Police Federation for Northern Ireland (PFNI) is urging the UK government to provide an “urgent bail-out” for the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI), citing a funding crisis. According to PFNI chair Liam Kelly, Stormont does not have sufficient funds to assist the PSNI, which requires hundreds of millions for various purposes, including settling… Continue reading PSNI needs an 'urgent bail-out' from UK government

Shiona McCallum, a senior technology reporter, notes that bereaved families are urging the UK government to conduct a public inquiry into the alleged “repeated failures” in protecting vulnerable individuals from a website promoting suicide. The Molly Rose Foundation’s report indicates that departments were alerted 65 times about the online platform, which remains unnamed by BBC… Continue reading Bereaved families call for inquiry after suicide website warnings 'ignored'

Prince Andrew’s alleged use of police protection to gather information about accuser Virginia Giuffre is making headlines in various newspapers. The Sun reports that just before the Mail published a photo of their first meeting in 2011, the prince possibly tried to “dig dirt”. Despite these reports, Prince Andrew has not responded but continues to… Continue reading Newspaper headlines: 'Andy sweats over police probe' and 'Ceasefire in peril'

Bosses can often feel like they hold all the power, making it challenging to say “no” to their requests. Trying to impress rather than disappoint can lead to a slippery slope of ambition, where work begins to infiltrate personal time with family and friends. Setting boundaries is crucial in order to maintain a healthy work-life… Continue reading The two words you need to help you push back at work

Award-winning Hollywood actress Cate Blanchett has found a new passion beyond the glitz and glamour of the silver screen – saving seeds. While most know her for her acting prowess, Blanchett’s interest in horticulture shines through as she delves into the world of seeds. She is particularly fascinated by the banksia species native to Australia,… Continue reading Cate Blanchett: In praise of the humble seed