11.1 C
Manchester
Thursday, February 26, 2026
Home Blog Page 194

Real Madrid v Man City: Repeat of 4-0 triumph ‘almost impossible’, says Guardiola

0

Pep Guardiola says it is “almost impossible” to conceive of Manchester City repeating last season’s 4-0 rout of Real Madrid when the teams face off again in the quarter-finals of the Champions League.

City faced Madrid at the semi-final stage last season, one year on from suffering a dramatic 6-5 aggregate defeat to Los Blancos in the last four.

Having played out a cagey 1-1 draw at the Santiago Bernabeu last May, City produced arguably their best performance under Guardiola in the second leg, thrashing Madrid 4-0 to reach the final in Istanbul.

Read our other sports news stories here:
Manchester City: Rodri expects to face ‘different’ Real Madrid in Champions League
Man Utd: ‘No point’ in eyeing Champions League, says ‘upset’ Casemiro
The Masters 2024: Faldo rubbishes chances of Rahm and Scheffler

Carlo Ancelotti’s team were hammered by the Spanish media after that result, and the Italian said his side had played with “no personality” at the Etihad Stadium.

Asked about those comments at Monday’s pre-match press conference in Madrid, Guardiola said: “I am not going to disagree with Carlo. I have huge admiration for him.

“I was at Barcelona so I understand when Real Madrid lose, it’s really bad. They have to think the other team was better.

“In football it happens. That game we were better, not because Real Madrid were bad. We made a lot of good things, but at that club you are judged as if it was really bad. It can happen.”

Asked whether a repeat of that 4-0 success was possible this campaign, Guardiola said: “It’s tough. To beat Real Madrid two times in this way is almost impossible.

“Once in this competition is difficult, so imagine two in a row! It’s not easy because they learn and they have pride. We have to try to be smart and see what happens in the second leg.”

Guardiola does not believe last year’s result will provide Madrid with additional motivation ahead of Tuesday’s first leg at the Santiago Bernabeu, saying both teams have evolved since that match.

“It was last season. Two seasons ago we went out in the last minutes here. Last season we won,” he said.

“It looks like a classic between them and ourselves in the last few years but I don’t have that feeling about last season. It’s the same managers, but we have new players and they have new players.

“They are completely different games and of course there is a little bit of a comparison because the second leg is at home, but we have to play 90 minutes here.

“The games are long here for many reasons. Expect different games in the same game. They will press high and be aggressive. They are so dangerous.

“Everyone knows the strength of the transitions they have. They have incredible pace to do this. But at the same time, you cannot come here just to control the game because we have to let them know we are here to punish them, to score a goal.

“We are talking about Real Madrid and they have the ability to control many aspects. We have to be who we are and try to impose our game.”

Manchester City: Rodri expects to face ‘different’ Real Madrid in Champions League

0

Rodri says Manchester City cannot afford to reflect too much on last year’s Champions League thrashing of Real Madrid as they prepare to renew hostilities with a “different” iteration of Los Blancos on Tuesday.

City beat Madrid 5-1 on aggregate in the Champions League semi-finals last year en route to capturing their first European crown, routing Carlo Ancelotti’s team 4-0 at the Etihad Stadium in the second leg of that tie.

One year earlier, it was Madrid who came out on top in a semi-final classic between the teams, with Rodrygo scoring two late goals to force extra time in a dramatic second leg, which the Spanish giants won courtesy of Karim Benzema’s penalty.

Read our other sports news stories here:
Man United: ‘No point’ in eyeing Champions League, says Casemiro
Masters 2024: Faldo rubbishes chances of favourites Rahm and Scheffler
IPL 2024: Punjab Kings v Sunrisers Hyderabad – preview, free bets and offers

While the teams have become familiar foes in recent years, Rodri says there can be no complacency on City’s part and insists Madrid will never be underdogs in Europe.

“Of course we have the experience of last year but we don’t focus much on that. We know we are going to face a different Real Madrid,” he said at Monday’s pre-match press conference at the Santiago Bernabeu.

“Every season is different. We come here in one of the best shapes ourselves of this season. We already know each other so well from the past years. It’s going to be such a tough game tomorrow.

“I said we’ll face a different Madrid because they play different. They control more games and have more midfielders and of course we expect it to be tough. We have to adapt ourselves.

“They are always favourites in this competition, more here at home. We know them well and know how we have to fight against them.”

While Rodri believes Madrid have improved since last season, he feels the same is true of City, saying: “We are a more mature team.

“We have experience of winning this competition now. We come here with a different mentality and composure. I hope the experience of winning the tournament helps us do things right tomorrow.”

The most obvious difference to Madrid’s team is the presence of Jude Bellingham, who has 20 goals and 10 assists since joining from Borussia Dortmund last year.

“We already know Jude from the times we have met Borussia Dortmund,” Rodri said of the England star. “We already know the type of player he is.

“He is so powerful, with strength and that ability to arrive in the second line. We already know him. I don’t like to focus on one player. They have enormous potential across the pitch.”

Man United results: ‘No point’ in eyeing Premier League heights or Champions League – ‘upset’ Casemiro

Manchester United’s players are “upset” by their form and have “no point” in aiming for the Premier League title or Uefa Champions League qualification, midfielder Casemiro has said.

The 20-time top-flight champions followed up a point at lowly Brentford and last-gasp defeat at Chelsea by drawing 2-2 with contenders Liverpool at Old Trafford on Sunday.

“The point that bothers me most about not fighting for titles is being 20 points behind first place,” said Casemiro, telling ESPN Brazil that the situation for United, who are 22 points off the pace, is “difficult”.

“I can’t even sleep for trying to think about doing something different. It’s reality. There’s no point in thinking about the title or Champions League places – we need to think about today’s games.

Read our other football news stories here:
The Masters 2024: Faldo rubbishes chances of favourites Rahm and Scheffler
Rudiger looking forward to City test

Ten Hag has mixed emotions after draw

“We need to think about the day to day. We had the opportunity to score nine points in the last few games and we scored two.

“We were upset. We have to think game by game and focus on the next match, against Bournemouth [away on Saturday].”

Man United results: Casemiro concern

While Liverpool are locked in a tight title race with Arsenal and Manchester City, United’s chances of finishing in the fifth place which is likely to ensure Champions League qualification have faded.

With seven league games remaining, United are 11 points behind Aston Villa, who occupy that position, with a significant goal inferiority.

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A POST SHARED BY CASEMIRO (@CASEMIRO)

One of their 12 league defeats came when they lost 3-0 at home to Bournemouth in December despite having 69% of possession.

“I had a good start to the season – I was the team’s player of the month,” said Casemiro. “Here, when you win, everyone wins; when you lose, everyone loses.

“It’s not Casemiro who is in sixth. All of the players are in sixth. We have to evaluate collectively.

“My thought is to play good games and win titles, which is my main objective.”

The Masters 2024: Faldo rubbishes chances of favourites Rahm and Scheffler

Nick Faldo has questioned whether Scottie Scheffler or Jon Rahm can win the Masters.

World number one Scheffler goes into Augusta as the favourite while Rahm is the defending champion. 

Read our other football news stories here:
Rudiger looking forward to City test
Ten Hag has mixed emotions after draw
Punjab Kings v Sunrisers Hyderabad: Preview, odds and betting offers

But Faldo believes the winner will come from elsewhere and offered different reasons as to why two of the game’s leading lights may be disappointed this weekend.

Scheffler has extended his advantage at the top of the world rankings following wins at the Arnold Palmer Invitational and the Players in recent weeks but Faldo believes the unique atmosphere of a major may throw him of course.

He told the Sky Sports Golf podcast: “Everyone’s screaming that he is the favourite, but I’m not so sure. He has got to deal with that, and a lot of things have got to go right.

“I think it’s just a mental thing, as everyone gets hyped up at majors. If you’re good enough to take the majors down a couple of notches, so you’re back to normal, I think that that’s what he can do. I think that’s his main strength.”

Rahm defected to LIV Golf in December in a deal worth a reported $300million and three-time Masters winner Faldo believes the lack of hard-nosed competition on the breakaway tour, as well as its 54-hole format, will count against him.

“I think he feels that [lack of intensity],” Faldo added. “I know that he made comments about watching Riviera [Genesis Invitational] and thought he wished he was there.

“I thought The Players was good and I bet he wished he was in there. He has been playing resort courses in shorts for the past couple of months and hasn’t really been tested yet.

“He’s a hell of a player, but he’s going to have to make a little bit of effort to step it up and get the right intensity. Whether coming into defend you can do it, or whether he’s just not quite sharp enough because he hasn’t tested himself quite as much, we’ll have to wait and see.”

Faldo didn’t go as far as predicting a winner but believes it may be someone who is flying under the radar.

He said: “I was looking at stats and I’ve got a feeling it could be a ‘second-tier’ guy. You’ve got a dozen or so obvious names and then I think it could be a person from outside of that – someone playing well enough. But it’s a whole new world trying to win your first Green Jacket.”

Success stories: How a maths tutor GCSE changed the lives of students

0

Mathematics is a subject that many students find challenging, but with the right support, they can overcome their difficulties and achieve success.

A maths tutor GCSE can make a significant difference in a student’s academic journey, providing personalised support and guidance that can lead to improved grades and increased confidence. Here, we share inspiring success stories of students whose lives have been changed by their Maths Tutor GCSE experience, highlighting the transformative impact of dedicated gcse math tutors.

Overcoming academic challenges

Many students face academic challenges in mathematics, struggling to grasp complex concepts or keep up with the pace of the classroom. For these students, a Maths Tutor GCSE can provide the individualized attention they need to succeed.

One student, Sarah, was struggling with algebra and geometry in her GCSE maths class. After working with a Maths Tutor GCSE, she not only improved her grades but also gained a deeper understanding of the concepts, enabling her to tackle more advanced topics with confidence. Another student, David, found trigonometry daunting but with the help of a Maths Tutor GCSE, he was able to break down the concepts into manageable parts and eventually excel in the subject.

Building confidence and self-esteem

Maths Tutor GCSE can also help students build confidence and self-esteem. For students who have struggled with maths in the past, the support and encouragement of a tutor can make a world of difference.

John, a student who lacked confidence in his mathematical abilities, found that working with a Maths Tutor GCSE helped him develop a more positive attitude towards the subject. Through regular practice and guidance, he was able to improve his grades and feel more confident in his mathematical abilities. Similarly, Emma, who had always believed she was “bad at maths,” discovered that with the right support, she could not only understand the subject but also excel in it, boosting her self-esteem and academic performance.

Individualised learning and support

One of the key benefits of Maths Tutor GCSE is the individualised learning and support it provides. Tutors can tailor their approach to meet the specific needs of each student, helping them overcome their weaknesses and build on their strengths. This personalised approach can be particularly beneficial for students who may struggle in a traditional classroom setting.

For example, Jack, who had difficulty focusing in a large classroom environment, found that working one-on-one with a Maths Tutor GCSE allowed him to concentrate better and make significant progress in his studies.

Similarly, Sarah, who had always felt intimidated by maths, discovered that her Maths Tutor GCSE was able to break down complex concepts in a way that made them easier to understand, boosting her confidence and improving her grades. The individualised attention and support provided by a Maths Tutor GCSE can also help students like John, who had fallen behind in his studies, catch up and excel in his GCSE maths exams. By addressing each student’s unique needs and learning styles, Maths Tutor GCSE can unlock their full potential and set them up for future success.

Preparation for exams and future success

Maths Tutor GCSE can also play a crucial role in preparing students for exams and future success. Tutors can help students develop effective study skills, exam techniques, and problem-solving strategies that are essential for success in GCSE maths and beyond.

Many students find that the confidence and skills they gain from working with a Maths Tutor GCSE extend beyond the classroom, benefiting them in other areas of their academic and professional lives. Ultimately, the support and guidance of a Maths Tutor GCSE can have a profound impact on a student’s academic journey, helping them achieve their full potential and reach their goals.

Inspiring future generations: The legacy of Maths Tutor GCSE

The stories of Sarah, John, David, Emma, and Jack highlight the transformative impact that Maths Tutor GCSE can have on students’ lives. By providing personalized support, building confidence, and preparing students for exams and future success, Maths Tutor GCSE is not just a tool for academic improvement but also a catalyst for personal growth and achievement.

As these students continue on their academic journeys, they will carry with them the lessons and skills they have learned from their tutors, inspiring future generations of students to believe in their abilities and strive for excellence in mathematics.

 

Mastering the Art of High-Converting Landing Pages: A Comprehensive Guide

0

It’s a known fact that having a high-converting landing page can genuinely make all the difference between success and obscurity. You’ll need this if you truly want to take your business to new levels! That being said, a well-crafted landing page functions as your virtual storefront, enticing visitors, drawing them in, and pushing them to take action.

The end goal isn’t just a one-off purchase; it’s converting them into loyal customers. Mastering the creation of landing pages that actually convert requires a strategic approach. In fact, there’s a lot of attention to detail to think about, too. Mastering the art of crafting a compelling landing page goes beyond simply creating a webpage; it requires transforming it into a masterpiece! But how do you achieve this? Here’s precisely what you need to know.

You’ll Need to Define Your Objective

Before diving into the design and copywriting process, it’s crucial to establish your objective. What is the purpose of your landing page? Are you aiming to capture leads, promote a specific product, showcase a service, or drive webinar registrations? Clarifying your goals upfront will guide the entire creation process.

So, just by aligning your landing page’s purpose with your overarching marketing goals, you can ensure that your efforts yield significant results. Every element on your page must be optimised to encourage the desired action. Failing to do so will restrict your ability to generate leads effectively.

Keep it Simple and Clean

One common mistake many businesses make with their landing pages is clutter. Numerous landing pages are chaotic, which can deter visitors. Moreover, clutter can negatively impact SEO performance, a concern that any reputable SEO marketing agency would advise against.

It’s essential to avoid overwhelming visitors and risking the perception of your page as untrustworthy or spammy. A clutter-free design is critical to maintaining clarity and effectively conveying your message. While simplicity doesn’t equate to dullness, a clean design guides visitors towards the desired action without distraction. Remember, in landing page design, the “less is more” principle reigns supreme.

Craft Compelling Copy

Your landing page copy presents a golden opportunity to engage and compel visitors to act, making a strong, attention-grabbing headline essential. Just as with crafting landing pages, mastering the art of copywriting is paramount. In fact, it’s advisable to hone your copywriting skills before delving into landing page creation.

Utilise concise and persuasive language, emphasising the benefits and addressing pain points to captivate your audience’s interest. However, ensure your copy remains clear and compelling, encouraging visitors to delve deeper into your offerings.

Avoid cluttering your page with excessive text; opt for brevity, utilising scannable formats such as bullet points. While AI tools may offer assistance, your intimate knowledge of your product or service positions you best to convey its unique value proposition effectively.

Ultimately, crafting compelling copy is a task best undertaken personally, ensuring authenticity and resonance with your target audience.

Think About Your Call-to-Action

Every compelling copy requires a solid Call to Action (CTA), and your landing page is no exception. How can you guide your visitors if they have no clear path to follow? Therefore, it’s imperative to make your CTA clear, compelling, and persuasive, motivating visitors to take action.

Ensure your CTA is prominently displayed to encourage engagement. Direct language such as “Sign Up Now,” “Get Started,” or “Buy Now” can be highly effective. Additionally, utilising buttons with contrasting colours further enhances visibility and encourages interaction.

Optimise Your Landing Page for Mobile

Many of your visitors aren’t accessing your landing page from a desktop; instead, they’re using their mobile phones. Therefore, it’s crucial to prioritise optimising your landing page for mobile users. Ensure it is fully responsive and compatible with all screen sizes. Additionally, streamline your design to minimise load times.

Regardless of the device, whether it’s mobile or desktop, it’s essential to ensure that your landing page functions seamlessly.

Having a high-converting landing page can be the pivotal factor between success and obscurity in business. Your landing page serves as a virtual storefront, drawing in visitors and driving them towards action. The ultimate goal isn’t just a one-time transaction; it’s about nurturing loyal customers. Crafting such pages requires strategic thinking and attention to detail, transforming them into masterpieces. By aligning your landing page’s purpose with your marketing goals, simplifying design, crafting compelling copy, implementing clear CTAs, and optimising for mobile, you can ensure your landing page effectively converts visitors into customers, propelling your business to new heights.

Premier Black Businesses Summit – A global gathering for growth and opportunity

Manchester is set to host the ground-breaking Black Businesses Summit on August 2 and 3.

This landmark event has garnered international attention, attracting not only local attendees but also a diverse group of participants from across the globe.

Tailored specifically for black business owners, investors, professionals, start-ups, and aspiring entrepreneurs, the summit promises an inclusive platform for learning, networking, and strategic growth.

Who should attend?

The Black Businesses Summit welcomes a broad array of attendees:
● Black business owners: looking to expand their market reach and explore new
opportunities
● Investors seeking to be part of sustainable and profitable ventures within the black
business community
● Professionals across various industries aiming to connect with like-minded individuals
and leaders
● Start-ups that desire mentorship and advice from seasoned business executives
● Aspiring entrepreneurs who are considering setting up a business and want to gain a
comprehensive understanding of the global business landscape

Whether you’re rooted locally or situated abroad, if your aspirations align with these goals, this summit is an unparalleled opportunity to propel your ambitions forward.

Why you should attend

Participating in the Black Businesses Summit offers an array of compelling benefits:
● Networking opportunities: Forge valuable connections with potential business
partners, mentors, and peers
● Educational workshops: Learn from industry experts through sessions tailored to the
unique challenges and opportunities faced by Black businesses in the global
marketplace
● Investor insights: Gain first-hand knowledge from experienced investors on what they
look for in promising ventures and how to secure funding
● Market expansion strategies: Discover new ways to expand your business into
international markets and increase your competitive edge
● Empowerment sessions: Be inspired by stories of success and perseverance within
the Black business community

Emphasising the need for inclusivity and representation in the global economy, the summit
serves as a vital tool for empowerment and economic advancement.

What to expect

Attendees can look forward to an enriching two-day agenda featuring:
● Keynote speeches from world-renowned entrepreneurs and business thought leaders
● Panel discussions addressing critical topics such as access to capital, innovation, and
navigating economic uncertainties
● Interactive workshops designed to equip business owners with actionable strategies for
growth
● An exhibition hall showcasing the best of Black-owned businesses from around the
world
● Ample time for informal networking and collaboration.

By attending the Black Businesses Summit, you position yourself at the forefront of change and progress, standing shoulder-to-shoulder with those shaping the future of Black entrepreneurship globally.

Don’t miss this chance to be a part of a transformative experience that will ignite your passion, broaden your horizons, and potentially mark the beginning of your next big venture.

To register for the event, visit: www.embraceengagesummit.co.uk

Search teams continue to investigate human remains found in Kersal Dale

0

Detectives are continuing to investigate following the discovery of human remains in Kersal Wetlands on Thursday evening.

A passerby had discovered an “unknown item wrapped in plastic” in the woodlands, which was found to be a torso without identifying marks.

Police are working to determine the identity of the person whose remains have been found.

Through initial forensic and DNA testing, the victim is a man, who is likely to be older than 40 years old. It is believed he has only been deceased for a few days.

On Sunday night, a 20-year-old man from the local area was arrested on suspicion of murder. He remains in custody and will be questioned by detectives.

Officers say their main aim to establish who the victim is as they are keen to get in touch with the family and they say they will not stop work until they are certain they have thoroughly searched this area.

Local officers and specialist branches in the force, including search dogs and underwater search teams will help comb every inch of the area.

Chief superintendent Tony Creely said: “The arrest we made yesterday evening is an important step for our investigation, but we must keep an open mind and a big part of this is speaking to anyone who may have crucial information.

“As we continue to work in the area, I would like to take this opportunity to thank the public for their concern and cooperation so far, and we are mindful this is a disturbing incident for the local community, but I can assure you that since we were made aware, we’ve been pursuing every single line of enquiry to help us find out what has happened.

“I cannot stress the importance of people contacting us with information if they know anything at all.

“You may have information that you don’t feel is of importance, but it could be to us, please pass it on, it could be the key piece of information we need to progress this investigation.

“Anyone who thinks they may have witnessed something suspicious in the Kersal Dale area over the last few days, could be key to unlocking what happened is asked to come forward by calling 101 and quoting log number 2695 of April 4, 2024.”

Details can also be passed anonymously to the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

Boosting Efficiency and Compliance: The Case for Legal Case Management Software in Law Firms

0

In today’s fast-paced legal landscape, law firms face increasingly complex challenges in managing caseloads, coordinating team efforts, and delivering exceptional client service. Amidst these demands, the adoption of technology has become imperative for firms striving to stay competitive and efficient. Legal Case Management Software (LCMS) emerges as a pivotal solution, offering a comprehensive platform to streamline operations, enhance collaboration, and elevate client satisfaction. In this blog, we delve into five compelling reasons why law firms should leverage LCMS to optimise their workflows, boost productivity, and achieve unparalleled success in the digital era.

Enhanced Organisation and Efficiency

Enhance your law firm’s organisation and efficiency with legal case management software. By investing in this technology, you can experience improved productivity through streamlined processes and seamless integration of all your legal tasks. The software offers automated processes that eliminate the need for manual data entry, saving you valuable time and reducing the risk of errors. One of the key advantages of legal case management software is its customisable features. You can tailor the software to suit your specific needs, whether it’s creating custom workflows, generating reports, or setting up task reminders. This flexibility allows you to adapt the software to your firm’s unique requirements, enhancing overall efficiency. Moreover, legal case management software provides a cost-effective solution for law firms of all sizes. By optimising your workflow and centralising your data, you can reduce operational costs and maximise resources. Investing in this software is a smart decision that will ultimately benefit your firm’s bottom line.

Improved Collaboration and Communication

How can legal case management software facilitate better collaboration and communication within your law firm? Implementing this software can greatly enhance team collaboration, real-time communication, and file sharing among your staff. Here’s how it can benefit your firm:

– Team Collaboration: Legal case management software allows team members to work together on cases, share insights, and collaborate more efficiently, leading to better outcomes for clients.

– Real-Time Communication: With features like messaging integration, staff can communicate instantly, share updates, and seek clarification on important matters promptly.

– File Sharing and Document Tracking: The software enables seamless file sharing and tracking, ensuring that all team members have access to the latest versions of documents and can track changes effectively.

Centralised Case Information and Data Security

Centralising case information and guaranteeing data security is paramount for law firms utilising legal case management software, providing a secure repository for sensitive client data and streamlining access for your team. By centralising storage, you create a hub for all case-related documents and information, facilitating quick and secure access for authorised personnel. This centralised approach enhances productivity by eliminating the need to search through multiple sources for relevant data, saving valuable time that can be redirected to serving clients effectively. Moreover, the emphasis on data protection guarantees that confidential information remains secure within the system. Legal case management software offers secure access controls, encryption features, and regular backups to safeguard against data breaches or loss. This not only ensures compliance with privacy regulations but also instils trust with clients who rely on your firm to handle their cases with the utmost confidentiality. Incorporating legal case management software into your firm’s operations not only centralises case information but also fortifies data security, ultimately leading to increased efficiency and client satisfaction.

Streamlined Workflows and Task Management

To optimise efficiency and organisation within your law firm, legal case management software offers streamlined workflows and robust task management capabilities. This can lead to increased productivity, seamless integration, and optimised processes for your team. Here’s how legal case management software can enhance your workflows:

Increased Productivity: By automating repetitive tasks and providing a centralised platform for case information, your team can focus more on essential legal work, ultimately boosting productivity.

Seamless Integration: Legal case management software can seamlessly integrate with other tools your firm uses, such as calendars and email platforms, ensuring a smooth workflow and avoiding duplication of efforts.

Automated Notifications and Customizable Dashboards: Receive timely notifications for deadlines, appointments, and important case updates. Customisable dashboards allow you to tailor the software to your specific needs, providing quick access to critical information and improving task management.

Better Client Service and Satisfaction

For a law firm, adopting legal case management software can significantly elevate client service and satisfaction levels. With integrated client communication features, you can keep your clients informed about case progress, upcoming deadlines, and important updates in a timely manner. Service tracking functionalities allow you to monitor and manage client interactions more efficiently, ensuring that all client needs are addressed promptly. Feedback collection tools provided by legal case management software enable you to gather valuable insights from clients about their experiences with your firm. By leveraging a client portal, you can offer a secure platform for clients to access case-related documents, communicate with their legal team, and stay informed about the status of their matters. Additionally, conducting satisfaction surveys through the software allows you to gauge client satisfaction levels and identify areas for improvement, ultimately enhancing the overall client experience. By utilising these features, you can enhance client service and satisfaction, leading to stronger relationships and increased trust in your firm’s capabilities.

In Conclusion

So, legal case management software is the way to go if you want to take your law firm to the next level. With enhanced organisation, improved collaboration, centralised information, streamlined workflows, and better client service, you’ll see a significant boost in efficiency and client satisfaction. Don’t wait any longer – invest in legal case management software today and watch your firm thrive.

Parliamentarians respond positively to challenging School Matters report

New articles from University of Manchester academics dissecting challenges facing pupils, teachers and policymakers in England, has been welcomed by members of both Houses of Parliament.

School Matters, published online by Policy@Manchester examines five policy areas where the eight authors believe attention is required.

These include childhood literacy, maths to 18, the role of area-based partnerships, primary-secondary school transitions, and the impact of young people’s everyday lives on learning.

Each individual article also advances evidence-based recommendations for improvement.

The document begins with a foreword by Paul O’Neill, deputy CEO of Right to Succeed which supports communities in areas of high deprivation to give children the best start in life.

He writes: ‘The vital contribution from academics at The University of Manchester in this Policy@Manchester report provides further thought-provoking insight and evidence around both the key areas of focus and the collective, contextual, community-centred approach required to implement any future policies or programmes effectively. Ultimately, if we can uplift our most vulnerable children, young people, and communities, we uplift society as a whole.’

Robin Walker MP, chair of the House of Commons Education Select Committee, responded positively to the School Matters report. “School undoubtedly matters and attendance is vitally important,” he said.

“After all the disruption of the pandemic, the Education Select Committee has been at the forefront of debate and discussion on how we support attendance and tackle persistent absence.

“The new research from the University of Manchester is a welcome contribution to this debate and amongst other things supports our recommendation of an enrichment guarantee from our report into persistent absence and support for disadvantaged pupils.”

Labour MP Catherine McKinnell, the shadow minister for schools said: “With young people experiencing some of the lowest levels of wellbeing in years, it’s so important we ensure school is enjoyable, with a focus on developing interests and passions as well as knowledge and skills.

“We know that persistent absence and mental health go hand in hand with raising school standards and therefore we need to deliver a curriculum which is rich, broad and inclusive. As part of our mission to break down barriers to opportunity, we will launch a curriculum and assessment review in government to look at how we can best achieve this and build up skills that set young people up for life.”