New data published by the IfS shows that while 90% of parents are happy to send their children back to school, there are still “big concerns” remaining over lost learning time leading to fears that some children will never catch up.

The Education Committee questioned Schools Minister Nick Gibb, Chief Regulator Simon Lebus and Ofqual Chair Ian Bauckham, as part of their ongoing inquiry into the impact of the pandemic on education and children’s services.

Elsewhere, ONS data published on Wednesday shows that almost two-thirds of university students have experienced a decline in their mental health this academic year. Universities UK is calling on the Government to “urgently turn its focus towards supporting students’ mental health and wellbeing in the weeks and months ahead.”

Finally, Labour had a mini reshuffle and announced a Bright Futures Taskforce. Emma Hardy stepped down from her role as Shadow Minister for Universities, to spend more time fighting for her constituents. She has been replaced by Matt Western. And the taskforce will consider how to ensure all children recover the learning and social development lost during the pandemic.