Welcome to the Berry Education Newsletter!
Stay updated with the latest statutory changes, best practices, regulatory updates and compliance requirements.
Some of this month’s Newsletter stories:
- Free Breakfast Club Update
- DBS Identity Changes
- Funding For AI Tools
Two Million Meals Already Served at Free Breakfast Clubs
Over two million meals were served in the first term of the government’s free breakfast club rollout — saving families up to £450 a year and giving parents back nearly 100 hours annually. The programme is already boosting punctuality, easing morning routines, and helping children start the day calm, fed, and ready to learn.
New data shows improved focus and attendance, especially among children with SEN or anxiety, while parents report increased flexibility and reduced stress. Further details on the national rollout are expected soon.
DBS Identity Check Changes – What Schools Need to Know
New DBS ID-checking rules came into effect on 22 April 2025, with a grace period until 1 November. The biggest change? You no longer need proof of address for Route 1 — just three documents showing name and date of birth.
Schools should also:
- Make sure ID checkers are trained on the new rules
- Keep ID check records for at least two years
- Consider using digital ID checks and video calls
2025/26 Governance Training Now Live – Free for Berry Education Customers!
Our new programme of live governance training is open for booking — and as a Berry Education customer, your board gets unlimited access at no extra cost.
✔️ Delivered live by experienced governance professionals
✔️ Interactive webinars with small group discussion and real-time Q&A
✔️ Covering key topics like admissions appeals, compliants & exclusions, SEND, Pupil Premium and more
✔️ CPD-accredited and fully online for easy access
Spaces are limited for each session (max 20 attendees), so we recommend booking early to secure your preferred dates.
More Funding for AI Tools to Support Teachers
The government has announced an extra £1 million to develop AI tools that help teachers give feedback and track pupil progress.
These tools are being designed to save teachers time and make classroom assessment easier — so teachers can spend more time working directly with pupils.
This builds on the AI in Education project launched in 2024, with new prototypes being developed for real classroom use.