The gap between disadvantaged and advantaged pupils at GCSE is at its widest since 2011, and there has been increase in the number of “ghost” children missing at least half of school, according to government figures. GCSE results in England fell from last year and are lower than in 2019, the final year of exams before the Covid pandemic. By Nicola Woolcock, Matilda Davies and George Willoughby, The Times.

Tes breaks down the GCSE performance data and secondary school league table results, highlighting key insights, trends and revelations that schools should be aware of. By Gráinne Hallahan.

Lawyers representing the majority of victims and survivors in the Independent Inquiry into Child Sexual Abuse (IICSA) have a letter published in today's Times. A year on from the release of the inquiry's final report, they warn that "not a single one of the main recommendations has been implemented". Calling for action, the lawyers conclude: "All political parties must treat child protection as a priority and the government must table legislation without delay." The letter appears below halfway.

Tes features an interview with John Camp, the first president of the Association of School and College Leaders (ASCL) to come from the primary and special school sector. Mr Camp talks about his inspirational teachers and how his own school days showed him the “potential for something different in the future”. By Cerys Turner.

Writing in Tes, director of Debate Hub at South Hampstead High School GDST Michael Hepburn looks at how schools can facilitate meaningful oracy and offers advice on how best to increase pupils' confidence around public speaking. Mr Hepburn says: "Take advantage of the incredible pedagogical tool that is debating. Children love to argue."

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