Education Insights
Education is changing rapidly. School leaders are navigating curriculum reform, SEND transformation, funding pressures, technological change and evolving expectations from pupils, parents and policymakers. Education Insights is where GLS and Findel explore the issues shaping the future of education, combining sector evidence, leadership perspectives and practical implications for schools. It is not a buying guide hub. It is a leadership hub designed to help school leaders understand change, anticipate challenges and identify opportunities.
Education Insights Hub Sections
Why does Education Insights exist?
Education Insights is different from every other hub on the GLS website. While other hubs focus on resources, procurement and classroom practice, Education Insights explores the wider issues affecting schools and trusts. It provides a platform for evidence-led thought leadership that helps school leaders understand the forces shaping education and what they may mean for future planning.
Featured articles
10 Vital Skills for Effective School Leaders

Falling Pupil Numbers: Turning Financial Pressure into Educational Advantage
Declining birth rates are no longer a distant forecast. Across London and other parts of England, schools are already seeing reduced Reception intakes and rising surplus places. These are changes that are directly impacting budgets and forward planning.

Alternative Provision – A Lifeline for Vulnerable Learners
Alternative Provision placements rise 24 per cent as schools adapt to complex needs. Findel supports inclusive learning for all.
Nigel Hunter
Bridging the Digital Divide in Education
Private schools lead in AI adoption while state schools lag. Findel discusses how to ensure equitable digital transformation.
Nigel Hunter
MAT Merger Strengthens Inclusive Education
Reach South and Transforming Futures Trust merge to strengthen SEND provision. Findel looks at what this means for inclusion.
Nigel Hunter
10 Vital Skills for Effective School Leaders
New to a school leadership, or looking to progress into one in the near future? Check out our skills checklist for effective school leaders here.

Characteristics Of A Leader In School
We explore the crucial characteristics you need to be an effective school leader, including communication and professional growth.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Education Insights?
Education Insights is a leadership hub designed by GLS and Findel to explore wider issues affecting schools and trusts, combining sector evidence, leadership perspectives and practical implications.
How does school funding affect financial sustainability?
Changes in pupil numbers, rising operational costs and increasing expectations continue to place pressure on school budgets, requiring multi-year planning and strategic resource allocation.
What are the key themes in curriculum reform?
Key themes include curriculum flexibility, oracy, assessment reform, and balancing current requirements with future changes emerging from national policy developments.
How should schools approach SEND reform?
Schools should distinguish between policy proposals and confirmed statutory duties while focusing on inclusive mainstream provision, staff expertise, and evidence-led professional development.
What governance is needed for AI in schools?
Schools need clear AI policies covering governance, safeguarding, data protection, intellectual property, accuracy verification, and equitable access for all pupils.
What standards guide Education Insights content?
Articles are guided by named sector evidence, source currency, policy accuracy, leadership perspectives, expert voices, and practical implications tailored for school and trust leaders.
Stay connected with GLS
Follow GLS for practical classroom ideas, product inspiration, school procurement guidance and the latest education news.