Discord seems to be preparing for PSN integration

  • The ability to connect PlayStation Network (PSN) accounts to Discord may be in the works.
  • This follows the announcement of an official partnership between PlayStation and Discord in May 2021.
  • It isn’t clear how the integration will work and if Discord’s communication capabilities will be implemented.
  • On Xbox, users can link accounts only to display what game they are playing to their friends on Discord.
  • Access our Discord safety card, here.
  • Full story, here.

 

Child protection must be a national priority in 2022 says NSPCC Chief

  • MPs and Peers are being urged by NSPCC CEO, Sir Peter Wanless to make child protection a national priority in 2022.
  • The pandemic continues to have an impact on children and the need for better support is vital.
  • Contacts made to the NSPCC helpline about children’s welfare have increased by a quarter, with overall numbers reported to children’s services falling in 2020/21.
  • The government is being called on to increase investments in children’s social care and introduce legislation to protect children online.
  • Full story, here.

 

Primary pupil masks may be needed in England

  • SAGE scientists have advised the government that mask-wearing may be needed for primary school pupils to combat the spread of Omicron.
  • The Department for Education (DfE) has re-instated mask wearing for secondary school pupils but not in primary schools.
  • The DfE has decided not to introduce masks in primary schools due to concerns over “hygienic use and communication”.
  • Primary schools and early years settings currently have measures in place to mitigate transmission.
  • These include staff testing, staff face coverings in communal areas, daily testing for close contacts and improved ventilation.
  • Full story, here.

Guidance Update: COVID-19 – children, young people, and education settings

  • The Department for Education (DfE) has updated its summary of evidence on COVID-19 and for children and young people in education.
  • This includes findings on the impact of face coverings on COVID-19 transmission and their impact in education settings.
  • The data will continue to be evaluated and collated to inform guidance on how to continue face-to-face delivery of education.
  • The full report can be found, here.

 
HMI to inspect schools from next week

  • Ofsted has reported that school inspections will resume next week using only full-time Her Majesty’s Inspectors (HMI) staff.
  • Serving heads and school leaders contracted as Ofsted inspectors will not be asked to carry out inspections which will limit the workforce.
  • Schools that have been significantly affected by the pandemic can request an inspection deferral.
  • Figures published at the end of last term showed that more than 20 schools that requested a referral had been rejected.
  • Full story, here.