Writing in The Times, Christopher King, chief executive of the Independent Association of Prep Schools, rejects claims the Common Entrance is 'dying', saying 'like prep schools themselves, the exam will adapt and evolve to meet the needs of pupils'.

In a separate letter, Alastair Speers, head of Sandroyd School, highlights "the significant number of thriving prep schools that have seen unprecedented pupil numbers over the past few years". Both letters can be found a quarter of the way down the page.

Independent schools are increasingly using technology to offer careers support and advice to their alumni, with some introducing digital apps to help students form connections. By Tom Ball, The Times.

Writing in The Times, Magnus Bashaarat, head of Bedales School, cautions against plans to abolish independent schools, arguing they "have much to offer in terms of innovation, approach and culture".

According to a new report, the cost of a private education is more than 50 per cent higher than for those who started school 15 years ago. By Ali Hussain, The Sunday Times.

Under new plans being developed with officials in China, 10 state grammar schools across the UK could be paid to teach thousands of Chinese teenagers and support them in applying to British universities. By Sian Griffiths, The Sunday Times.

The Department for Education has announced newly-qualified teachers in science and modern foreign languages (MFL) who work in "high needs" areas will receive £9,000 on top of their salaries as an incentive to continue teaching. By Dave Speck, Tes.

The Telegraph has created a four-part newsletter series, with contributions from education experts, personal finance reporters, and heads of independent schools, for parents interested in privately educating their children. The article references the Independent Schools Council.

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