National review of leadership apprenticeships: What schools need to know
25th February 2026 | Blogs | In the news | News
Schools planning levy-funded leadership development will face challenges as funded leadership development is being removed. This blog explains what that could mean for Thrive’s Level 5 leadership apprenticeships, why timing matters, and how to secure funded progression while current rules remain in place.
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When truth feels unstable: deepfakes, distressing content and the safeguarding challenge
23rd February 2026 | Blogs | Events | News
Schools and trusts are already managing safeguarding incidents involving AI-generated images, video and audio. This blog explores how manipulated and distressing online content is affecting school communities and examines how high-profile stories and viral content are shaping the emotional landscape in education settings, and why calm, informed responses matter more than ever.
Landmark study: Severe absenteeism cut by more than a third in Thrive schools
23rd February 2026 | Blogs | In the news | News | Impact Reports | Insights
A landmark independent study by ImpactEd Evaluation of more than 2,600 schools in England found that schools using the Thrive Approach reduced severe absenteeism by up to 38%, with overall severe absence 15% lower than national averages. The evaluation also reported lower exclusion rates and improved pupil and staff wellbeing, highlighting the measurable impact of a relational, trauma-sensitive approach.
Apprenticeship reforms in 2026: Levy changes and what education leaders need to know
19th February 2026 | Blogs | News
From April 2026, confirmed changes to Apprenticeship Levy funding will shorten expiry periods, increase employer contributions and remove the government top up. At the same time, some leadership apprenticeship routes are under review. This blog explains what is changing, what remains uncertain and what it could mean for schools developing senior leaders through Thrive Apprenticeships, along with the practical steps to consider now.
My Place: Belonging, Mattering and Feeling Emotionally at Home
11th February 2026 | Blogs | Insights
Children’s Mental Health Week 2026 shines a light on what helps children feel emotionally “at home” in school. In this blog, we explore the neuroscience of belonging and mattering, and why feeling noticed, valued and significant is fundamental to wellbeing, behaviour and learning. Discover how emotional safety shapes the nervous system, why belonging is more than inclusion on paper, and practical ways schools can strengthen relational practice in everyday moments.
Top tips for fostering a culture of emotional safety, belonging and mattering in schools
9th February 2026 | Blogs | Insights
Practical, relational guidance for schools looking to strengthen emotional safety, belonging and mattering. This blog explores small, consistent actions that support children and young people’s wellbeing, behaviour and engagement, and shows how a whole-school approach can create environments where every pupil feels seen, valued and ready to learn.
Top tips for fostering a culture of emotional safety, belonging and mattering in early years
9th February 2026 | Blogs | Insights
Top tips for early years settings on fostering emotional safety, belonging and mattering. This blog explores how small, consistent, relational actions support children’s personal, social and emotional development, helping them feel secure, valued and ready to learn.
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When AI becomes a peer, exploring its impact on children's development & wellbeing
29th January 2026 | Blogs
This blog explores how generative AI is increasingly experienced by children and young people as a peer rather than a tool, and what that shift means for wellbeing, trust, and development. Drawing on current UK research, it examines why AI can feel relational, the risks of emotional reliance, and the limits of AI as a source of support. It also reflects on the irreplaceable role of educators in helping children navigate AI thoughtfully, critically, and safely, with practical guidance for keeping human connection at the centre of digital life.
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Children's Mental Health Week 2026: Free resources to support belonging
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