Author: Lester Holt

The head of Ofsted has called for schools across the UK to “ban, ban, ban” smartphones, arguing that mobile devices are undermining education and negatively affecting student wellbeing. Speaking at a recent education conference, the Ofsted chief emphasised that smartphones are a growing distraction in classrooms. Teachers report that constant notifications, social media use, and gaming interfere with learning, reduce attention spans, and disrupt teaching routines. Ofsted inspectors have increasingly noted that mobile phone use in schools is linked to lower academic focus and engagement. While some schools have introduced partial bans or restrictions, the chief argues that only a…

A new survey has found that around one-third of UK parents have requested a special needs assessment for their child, reflecting rising concerns about learning difficulties, behavioural challenges, and access to tailored educational support. The survey, conducted by an independent research organisation, gathered responses from thousands of parents across the UK. It found that many parents pursue assessments to better understand their child’s needs, access specialist support, and secure resources within schools. Special needs assessments are designed to identify conditions such as autism spectrum disorder, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), dyslexia, and other learning or behavioural difficulties. Once identified, children…

The redevelopment of Earls Court, one of London’s most iconic areas, is expected to generate £3 billion annually for the UK economy, according to new projections from developers and urban planners. The ambitious project aims to transform the site into a mixed-use district featuring residential, commercial, and leisure facilities. Developers say the project will create thousands of construction jobs during the building phase and sustain long-term employment across retail, hospitality, and service sectors. Local businesses could also benefit from increased footfall, tourism, and commercial activity, boosting the area’s economic vitality. Housing is a major focus of the redevelopment. Planners have…

Environmental campaigners along the River Thames are calling for a ban on flimsy plastic pint cups, citing growing concerns about pollution, wildlife harm, and litter in London’s waterways. The campaign has gained momentum as summer events and riverside gatherings continue to generate significant plastic waste. Plastic pint cups, commonly used at festivals, pubs, and outdoor events, are lightweight and often discarded carelessly. Campaigners argue that they are difficult to recycle, frequently ending up in rivers, streets, and parks. Wildlife, including birds, fish, and small mammals, can mistake the cups for food or become entangled, resulting in injury or death. The…

UK-based environmental charity has urged the government to ban plastic packaging on fruit and vegetables, citing its contribution to plastic pollution and environmental degradation. The campaign has gained traction among Labour policymakers, who are reportedly listening closely to the recommendations. Plastic waste continues to be a major environmental concern. Single-use packaging, including the wrap on fresh produce, contributes significantly to land and ocean pollution. The charity highlights that alternatives such as paper, cardboard, or compostable materials are readily available and can reduce the ecological footprint of everyday groceries. The charity’s report warns that millions of tons of plastic packaging enter…

Natural England has issued a warning that wildlife, including hedgehogs, salmon, and many bird species, faces serious risks following the UK’s unusually dry summer. Low rainfall and high temperatures have caused water shortages, disrupted habitats, and strained food supplies, threatening vulnerable species across the country. Hedgehogs, already under pressure from habitat loss and road casualties, are struggling to find sufficient water and insects to sustain themselves. Conservationists report that many hedgehogs are appearing weaker and less active than usual, increasing the risk of starvation and illness. Salmon populations in rivers are also at risk. Low water levels and warmer river…

A 28-year-old Greek shipping heiress has died in her London residence after reportedly suffering from complications linked to an insect bite. Police and emergency services were called to the flat, where the young woman was found unresponsive. Authorities have launched an investigation to determine the exact cause of death. Preliminary reports suggest that the incident may have been triggered by an insect bite that led to a severe allergic reaction, although officials caution that the findings are still unconfirmed. A full post-mortem examination is underway to establish definitive causes. Neighbours reported hearing an ambulance arrive at the property in central…

Tesco, Morrisons, and Waitrose have urgently pulled a popular cereal from their shelves following the discovery of a contamination that poses a serious health risk. Shoppers are being advised not to consume the product and to return any affected items immediately for a full refund. The Food Standards Agency (FSA) issued an official warning confirming that the contamination could cause severe illness, with symptoms including vomiting, diarrhea, fever, and, in rare cases, life-threatening complications. Vulnerable groups, such as children, the elderly, and those with weakened immune systems, are particularly at risk. The recall covers specific batch numbers and best-before dates,…

A widely sold pasta ready meal has been urgently pulled from supermarket shelves across the UK after authorities detected contamination that poses a serious health risk. Customers are being advised not to consume the product and to return it for a full refund. The Food Standards Agency (FSA) issued a public alert confirming that the contamination could lead to severe illness and, in rare cases, may be fatal. The agency is working closely with the supermarket chain and the product’s manufacturer to identify the source and prevent further distribution. Supermarket representatives confirmed that all affected batches have been removed from…

The United Kingdom and the United States have signed a $42 billion technology pact during President Donald Trump’s visit, marking a major step in transatlantic cooperation on advanced technologies. The agreement focuses on artificial intelligence (AI), semiconductor production, and other high-tech sectors critical to economic growth and national security. Officials from both countries described the deal as a “historic partnership” designed to boost innovation, create jobs, and enhance competitiveness in the global tech market. The pact includes investment commitments, joint research initiatives, and support for technology infrastructure across both nations. A significant portion of the funding is directed toward AI…