As summer unfolds and another academic year winds down, there's a quiet but growing sense of anticipation about what lies ahead. September 2025 won't just be the start of a new school year—it’ll be a fresh chapter for education across the UK. With a new government in place, educators, leaders, and support staff are all watching closely to see what changes will take root.
So, what might we expect? And more importantly, what should we hope for?
A new government, a new direction?
The education sector is used to change, but there's a different energy this time. Big promises have been made — about funding, teacher workload, and support for students with SEND. But turning those promises into practical improvements is the real challenge.
Leadership teams will need to be agile, especially if new policies are rolled out quickly. From updated Ofsted frameworks to shifts in curriculum focus or funding allocations, the months ahead may demand more strategic planning than ever.
What’s actually changing?
In September 2025, education in the UK could see a shift towards greater inclusion, improved school buildings, and a renewed focus on sustainability and well-being, both for students and staff. Here are some of the key developments:
Inclusion and Well-being:
- The new Ofsted inspection framework will place greater emphasis on supporting students with SEND and those facing disadvantages, aiming for a more inclusive environment.
- Schools will be expected to demonstrate clear strategies for promoting mental health and well-being for both students and staff.
- There will be a holistic approach to education—balancing academic success with emotional, social, and mental well-being.
School Rebuilding and Sustainability:
- The School Rebuilding Programme, boosted by recent funding, aims to rebuild or refurbish 500 schools.
- Schools will be required to have a Climate Action Plan in place by September 2025 and must appoint a sustainability lead.
- The government is encouraging the use of green materials and innovation during rebuilds to reduce the sector’s environmental impact.
- The DfE’s broader aim is to make the education sector more sustainable and equip young people to navigate a world shaped by climate change.
Other Notable Changes:
- Ofsted will stop ungraded inspections, so all schools will face a full, graded inspection.
- Schools will begin receiving Ofsted "report cards"—designed to offer parents a clearer picture of school performance.
- There’s a big push to strengthen family services, expand access to early years education, and support early identification of SEND. New school-based nurseries are also being planned.
What does this mean for staff and students?
All of these changes will inevitably impact the daily lives of teachers, support staff, and students.
Staff may face a period of adjustment, especially as schools work to meet new expectations around inclusion, well-being, and climate action. But the long-term vision is a more supportive, flexible, and rewarding working environment. There’s real potential for improved work-life balance, reduced pressure from inspections, and more investment in mental health and professional development.
For students, a more inclusive and sustainable school system could mean not just better academic outcomes—but happier, healthier learning environments where they feel seen and supported.
Our hope: A more human-centred system
One of the key lessons from recent years is that education needs to be sustainable—for staff and students alike. Mental health, staff retention, fair workloads, and inclusive learning must be central to how schools and colleges operate.
We’d love to see 2025 become the year that well-being moves from a buzzword to a priority. Where flexible working isn’t just for corporate offices, and where staff feel valued, supported, and motivated to stay.
What can you do now?
Start having those conversations. Review your staffing structure. Look at your well-being offering. And think about how you can create a culture that keeps your best people—because recruitment is only half the battle.
Need support navigating the changes?
With over 15 years' experience in education recruitment and partnerships with 80% of college PSLs across the UK, Morgan Hunt is well-placed to help you plan ahead and build the right team for the future. Get in touch with us at education@morganhunt.com or find out more about our services here: www.morganhunt.com/sector/education