Business London Press

Education at a Crossroads: Report Declares “Time’s Up” for Traditional Exams

Education

News Desk

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23/05/2025

70% of teachers say AI is key to students’ future careers
Traditional GCSE and A-Levels could face radical overhaul as research reveals demand for new assessment methods
Nearly two-thirds of parents back a major overhaul of GCSEs and A-Levels
FindTutors proposes five innovative alternatives for assessment in the AI era

FindTutors, the UK-based private tuition platform owned by GoStudent, is urging education leaders to rethink the nation’s exam system after new research found it increasingly out of step with today’s AI-influenced world.

As the summer term concludes for pupils across the UK, fresh findings highlight growing dissatisfaction with the current model of exams. According to the Future of Education Report 2025 from GoStudent, 62% of parents believe more modern forms of assessment are urgently needed, citing the rapid rise of AI as a key factor. Already, 16% of students admit to using AI for essay writing, with 21% saying it has helped them pass exams.

Concerns are also growing around what current qualifications truly measure. A majority of parents (59%) feel exam grades no longer give a clear picture of a child’s capabilities, while 58% argue children are spending too much time on rote learning instead of building the critical thinking needed for the careers of tomorrow.

The study suggests the established systems — GCSEs and A-Levels in England, Wales and Northern Ireland, and National Qualifications in Scotland — could be due for radical change. With 84% of UK teachers favouring simulation-based assessments, the traditional exam hall could soon give way to interactive, real-world scenarios that test practical knowledge and application.

The research also indicates that portfolio-based evaluations may provide a more accurate reflection of a student’s skills and long-term development. Rather than facing high-pressure, end-of-year exams, students could compile a body of work over time – a shift that mirrors findings from the National Bureau of Economic Research, which show rising demand for soft skills in the workplace. Supporting this, 64% of parents believe AI makes soft skills more important – traits that current exams rarely measure.

Albert Clemente, CEO at FindTutors, outlines five alternative assessment methods that educational institutions should consider implementing to better measure student talent in today’s rapidly evolving digital landscape:

Simulation-based assessment (74% teacher support): Students demonstrate knowledge by making decisions in real-world scenarios, an approach already widely used in healthcare education.
Portfolio assessment (69% teacher support): Students build up a digital collection of work over time, allowing for a comprehensive view of progress rather than measuring performance on a single day.
Peer and self-assessment (67% teacher support): Students evaluate their own work and that of classmates, developing critical thinking skills and deeper understanding of assessment criteria.
Learning analytics (66% teacher support): ‘Big data’ assesses all student work across digital platforms, providing insights into learning patterns and progress that traditional exams cannot capture.
AI-based adaptive testing (63% teacher support): Personalised assessment adjusts to individual abilities, providing more accurate measurement of capabilities by tailoring difficulty levels to each student.

“Traditional essays and exams have been the cornerstone of education for more than a century, but our research clearly shows that both teachers and parents recognise the need for change. In particular, with 35% of teachers stating students cheat by using AI and 26% believing technology has made traditional assessments redundant, we need to rethink how we evaluate learning,” Clemente said.

With nearly half (41%) of teachers stating exams rely too heavily on memorising facts and 34% believing they create undue stress, the call for new assessment methods comes at a crucial time for UK education.

The research also found that 71% of teachers believe access to AI should be supervised rather than banned, highlighting the need to adapt assessment methods to the digital reality students now inhabit.

Financial Strain and Legal Pressures Prompt Thousands of UK Homeowners to Sell, Reports Open Property Group

Property

News Desk

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22/05/2025

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Financial Strain and Legal Pressures Prompt Thousands of UK Homeowners to Sell, Reports Open Property Group

Across the UK, homeowners are facing mounting pressure to sell their properties as financial hardship, regulatory changes, and personal upheavals reshape the housing market.

New figures from Open Property Group, a leading professional home buyer, reveal the shifting motivations behind property sales nationwide. Their latest internal data uncovers why increasing numbers of individuals are choosing to sell—and who they are.

In the current climate of economic uncertainty and tightened property laws, the research offers a telling look at how homeowners and landlords are adapting. The findings highlight a concerning trend among those experiencing personal challenges and financial insecurity.

Open Property Group Managing Director Jason Harris-Cohen explained:

“The company receives an average of 300 property leads per week, with a notable shift in seller motivations and property conditions over the last few years.”

Key statistics reveal:

Around 60–70% of sellers are live-in homeowners, with the remaining 30–40% being landlords, many of whom are exiting the rental market due to tax burdens and stricter legislation.
Sellers are typically aged between 45 and 65, with a high proportion downsizing, retiring, or responding to personal circumstances such as divorce or debt.
Most properties are valued between £150,000 and £250,000 and are frequently located in areas with lower market value or in need of repair.
Approximately 30% of homes are in substandard condition, often due to unaffordable maintenance costs or long-standing tenant issues.
Homeowners tend to sell after 8–15 years of ownership, though landlords are being forced to offload properties sooner due to cost pressures.
Between 50–65% of sellers still owe money on their mortgage, making the decision to sell even more urgent.

Reflecting on the data, Harris-Cohen added:

“We’re seeing a high percentage of sellers who are reacting to a combination of personal and market-driven challenges. The majority of enquiries are from individuals in financially stressful situations or landlords impacted by rising interest rates and changing legislation.”

The study also shows that around 80% of potential sellers eventually withdraw—most often due to dissatisfaction with offers or unexpected changes in their personal situation. Nonetheless, Open Property Group has completed 170 sales over the past year, and more than 400 in the past three, highlighting the continued appeal of their fast-sale model.

Many of these transactions are completed within just 21 days—providing crucial support for homeowners in distress by offering speed and certainty.

With average seller incomes ranging from £25,000 to £35,000 and a seller profile that skews 55% male and 45% female, the findings offer a realistic overview of who is currently selling—and why alternative sale methods remain in demand in today’s complex property market.

More information is available on Open Property Group’s official website.

Chaos Doesn’t Stand a Chance: Nest Zest Redefines the Modern Home with Smarter Cleaning Solutions

News

News Desk

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20/05/2025

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Chaos Doesn’t Stand a Chance: Nest Zest Redefines the Modern Home with Smarter Cleaning Solutions

In a world of over-complicated cleaning routines and eco guilt, Nest Zest is cutting through the noise. Founded by Emma and John Gay, the Staffordshire-based brand is waging a war on waste, overwhelm, and domestic dread—with reusable essentials and a rebellious spirit.

Emma was once a midwife battling exhaustion and the endless loop of cleaning chaos. In 2018, she reached her limit.

“I wasn’t living,” Emma said. “I was surviving. And I was absolutely knackered.”

Determined to reclaim control of her life and home, she joined forces with her husband John and created Nest Zest—a brand offering smart, reusable alternatives to the cluttered, chemical-heavy products so many households have relied on for too long.

Their bestselling Handy Mop was designed to replace roll after roll of kitchen paper, while their laundry baskets include built-in care labels—a stylish nudge towards sustainable fashion habits.

“It’s not about doing more, it’s about doing things differently,” said John. “Our products are investments – thoughtfully designed to last, reduce waste, and make life at home a lot less mental.”

Nest Zest products don’t just clean—they simplify. Refillable and reusable by design, the range encourages low-waste living with practical tools and minimal packaging. It’s a win for your wallet, your wellbeing, and the planet.

With cleaning influencers and eco advocates like Danielle Dawkins behind them, the brand has become a beacon for those looking to ditch the drama and embrace thoughtful simplicity.

Nest Zest isn’t here to glamorise chores. It’s here to shift the narrative—because a tidy home should support a busy life, not rule it.

From domestic burnout to business breakthrough, Emma and John have proved that with the right tools, every home can find its spark again.

Ready to join the rebellion against mess, waste and overwhelm? Visit www.nestzest.com.

Suzanne Jenkins Unveils AWAKEN Programme to Support Midlife Women During Mental Health Awareness Week

News Desk

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19/05/2025

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Suzanne Jenkins Unveils AWAKEN Programme to Support Midlife Women During Mental Health Awareness Week

As Mental Health Awareness Week (12th–18th May 2025) focuses on the power of Community, multi-award-winning life coach Suzanne Jenkins, founder of Zan Life Coaching, has launched a timely new initiative: AWAKEN — a six-week online group programme aimed at empowering women aged 40 and above to reclaim their confidence and direction.

The AWAKEN experience blends weekly online group sessions with a private Skool portal where participants can access recordings and resources at their own pace. The programme concludes with a tailored one-to-one strategy session, helping each woman take practical steps towards her next life chapter.

At a cost of £397, AWAKEN is purposefully designed for women undergoing major transitions such as burnout, career pivots, divorce, or empty nest syndrome. Its mission: to provide support, clarity, and community in a time when many feel isolated or uncertain.

Recent Mental Health Foundation’s 2024 report show over 70% of adults in the UK reported experiencing stress so severe they felt unable to cope in the last year. For women aged 40–60, this pressure is often compounded by competing personal and professional responsibilities. Meanwhile, Mind reports that 1 in 4 people in the UK experience mental health problems each year — further underlining the value of proactive, preventative support.

Suzanne Jenkins is no stranger to transformation. A certified Positive Cognitive Empowerment Coach with 16 years of experience, she has earned three business awards and co-authored a best-selling book. Her work is grounded in The Life Mastery Blueprint, a proven six-step method for building purpose-driven lives rooted in clarity and action.

“AWAKEN is about giving women permission to take a blank page and write their next chapter with intention,” said Suzanne Jenkins. “We work together to unlock potential, dismantle limiting beliefs, and rebuild a sense of self-worth that becomes a foundation for lasting personal growth.”

Determined to break the stigma surrounding personal development coaching, Suzanne also offers reassurance to those unsure whether the programme is right for them. “Coaching is forward-focused,” she added. “It’s not about dwelling on the past – it’s about stepping into your future with clarity and confidence. It’s for anyone who wants to grow, not just those in crisis.”

In Croydon, Pokz Hair Studios Becomes a Mental Health Lifeline for Black Men

News Desk

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19/05/2025

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In Croydon, Pokz Hair Studios Becomes a Mental Health Lifeline for Black Men

Pokz Hair Studios in Croydon is breaking new ground by providing not only expert grooming and hair replacement services but also emotional support tailored specifically for Black men.

Founded in 2023 by Opoku Kunadu-Yiadom, the studio has quickly become known as more than just a barbershop. It is a welcoming, judgement-free environment where clients can talk openly, feel heard, and leave not only looking but feeling better. Opoku, a graduate of the London School of Barbering with advanced training in Hair Replacement Systems, left his role as a quantity surveyor during the lockdown to pursue his passion. His vision has paid off, with the business expanding from 10 initial clients to a regular, growing customer base—and revenues rising from £40,000 to over £100,000 per year.

“It’s not just about the haircut,” said Opoku. “It’s about creating a space where men feel safe to open up about their struggles, be it depression, job loss, or personal challenges. The barber-client relationship is powerful; sometimes, it’s the only place where men feel they can truly be themselves.”

That safe space is urgently needed. Black men in the UK face some of the highest rates of mental health diagnosis and intervention, yet are statistically less likely to seek help. Social stigma, cultural expectations, and systemic inequality all play a part in creating a mental health gap that Pokz Hair Studios is working to bridge.

Opoku recalled one experience that stuck with him: “One of my regular clients stopped coming in. Concerned, I reached out and discovered he was battling depression after losing his job and facing personal issues. I invited him for a free haircut. That simple act helped restore his confidence, and he soon secured a new job. It’s moments like these that underscore the importance of what we do.”

More than a grooming studio, Pokz is a movement—committed to mental health advocacy, especially around men’s well-being and parental alienation. As Opoku reminds us, “hair is just the beginning – it’s about holistic well-being.”

Emma Young’s Ultimate Cheese and Beer Pairings for a Father’s Day to Remember

Food & Drink

News Desk

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19/05/2025

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Emma Young’s Ultimate Cheese and Beer Pairings for a Father’s Day to Remember

Recent findings show that 70% of dads would rather receive a meaningful, thoughtful present on Father’s Day than a practical one.

To help families craft the perfect food gift, leading cheese consultant and author Emma Young is sharing her expert pairing tips — offering a delightful way to celebrate dad with cheese and beer.

“As with wine, different styles of beer pair better with different styles of cheese,” Emma said. “The variety of flavours, textures, and production methods in beer make it an exciting partner to cheese — and in many cases, a more versatile one.”

The Perfect Union: Beer and European Cheese

Emma explains how beer naturally complements European cheeses in a number of ways:

Carbonation – “Just like Champagne complements soft cheeses like Brie or Camembert, the bubbles in beers such as lagers, pilsners and American IPAs help cut through the richness of soft cheeses.”
Bitterness – “A key component in many beer styles, bitterness balances cheese’s creamy, savoury profile, softening its richness and adding depth.”
Acidity – “Distinct from bitterness, acidity provides structure and refreshment, cleansing the palate between bites.”
Malt – “Malty beers, especially darker styles, pair beautifully with bold cheeses like blue, enhancing the inherent toasted or nutty notes.”
Fruit – “Fruity elements from certain hops or fruit beers create a delightful contrast with rich, creamy cheeses, much like fruit preserves on a cheeseboard.”

Emma recommends beginning with the cheese selection and finding the right beer to match. Her curated pairings below make for an unforgettable Father’s Day spread:

Brillat-Savarin with a Blackberry Sour
“Rich and indulgent, this triple-cream soft cheese (similar to Brie but with added cream) can be served savoury or sweet. Paired with a blackberry sour, the combination of fruit and cream is both familiar and satisfying, with the sour beer’s acidity cutting through the unctuous paste.”
Cantal PDO with a Pale Ale
“One of France’s oldest cheeses, Cantal is firm and complex with bright acidity, savoury depth, and subtle fruitiness. A pale ale’s juicy, fruity notes enhance Cantal’s character, creating a balanced and vibrant match.”
Fourme d’Ambert PDO with a Nitro Stout
“A mellow yet rich blue cheese with notes of salt, mushroom, and malt pairs seamlessly with a creamy, chocolatey nitro stout. The roasted flavours in the stout mirror the earthy, torrefied notes in the cheese — a soulmate pairing where bitterness and sweetness play together beautifully.”
Langres PDO with a Hazy Session IPA
“Langres is a washed-rind cheese known for its powerful, savoury flavour and gooey centre. A hazy session IPA brings just enough bitterness and carbonation to refresh the palate while standing up to Langres’ intensity.”
Comté PDO with an Orange Lager
“With its firm yet supple texture and complex nutty, buttery flavours, Comté is a versatile favourite. Paired with a bright orange lager, the citrus notes elevate the cheese’s woody and alpine aromas without overpowering its delicate balance.”

Emma’s message for this year’s celebration? Ditch the clichés and gift something packed with flavour and personal touch.

Jeff Charlton Confirmed to Speak at BSEM 2025 on Ecological Home Health Solutions

News Desk

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16/05/2025

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Jeff Charlton Confirmed to Speak at BSEM 2025 on Ecological Home Health Solutions

Leading environmental health authority Jeff Charlton will deliver a keynote talk at the BSEM Training Day: Ecological Approaches to Healthy Homes, taking place in June 2025.

Drawing on over 40 years of hands-on experience, Jeff will explore the links between environmental hazards like toxic mould and chronic illness — sharing practical, ecological interventions that can significantly improve indoor health.

His career began at St George’s Hospital in the 1970s as a Technician in Medical Physics and Nuclear Medicine, before transitioning into the British Army, where he applied his technical training in complex field environments. This paved the way for a high-profile international career in decontamination.

Jeff’s projects have ranged from post-flood and fire restoration to chemical and biological clean-ups. He has led major operations across the UK and abroad, including the high-stakes decontamination of the Emir’s Palace in Kuwait after the Gulf War — a project that later led to training roles in the US for military contractors.

In the UK, Jeff founded Building Forensics and The British Damage Management Association, both of which have become key voices in identifying and tackling mould and building-related illnesses. He has presented findings to the House of Commons and played an advisory role in flood response legislation.

A life-changing moment came when his daughter fell seriously ill with leukaemia. During her treatment, Jeff uncovered toxic mould in her home — a potential contributor to her condition. That experience became the driving force behind his campaign to raise awareness of environmental triggers of illness.

To address the lack of accessible testing, he created Mould Lab, which provides both advanced analysis and DIY mould detection kits, helping families identify risks often overlooked by conventional medicine.

Even when facing institutional pushback, including a police interview, Jeff has continued to campaign for better recognition of environmentally acquired illnesses. He remains an active Founding Member of the International Society for Environmentally Acquired Illness, a respected voice in the Chartered Institute of Environmental Health, and a contributor to several peer-reviewed studies.

At the BSEM event, Jeff Charlton will make the case for stronger collaboration between medicine and environmental science. Attendees will gain invaluable insights into diagnosing and preventing hidden household hazards using ecological principles.

From £3M Online Stores to SEO Support for Local Businesses – SEOJet Launches in Somerset

Marketing

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16/05/2025

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From £3M Online Stores to SEO Support for Local Businesses – SEOJet Launches in Somerset

A new Somerset-based SEO firm is offering businesses a powerful new option for digital growth. SEOJet.co.uk is built on the same tried-and-tested principles that helped create online retail brands worth millions — and it’s now available to companies across the UK.

With nearly two decades of experience, the SEOJet team has used organic search to successfully grow their own ecommerce ventures, including one that reached over £3 million in annual sales. Their methods, they say, are based on performance, not theory.

“Our SEO approach wasn’t built in a meeting room – it was built through years of growing our own online shops,” said the team at SEOJet. “The same method works on any site, but only if you stick with it. SEO isn’t a quick fix – it’s a structured process that delivers long-term results.”

SEOJet offers clients 12-month campaigns that address every key element of search engine optimisation — including content structuring, keyword implementation, technical SEO fixes, and authority building through backlinks.

Each project is rolled out in close collaboration with the client, ensuring step-by-step implementation, transparent updates, and a data-led approach. Their process has delivered:

Thousands of high-ranking keywords
Continuous organic traffic improvements
Significant savings on advertising costs
Stronger positioning against larger competitors

In addition to ecommerce success, the team also has a proven track record in local SEO — helping brick-and-mortar businesses rise in local search rankings and increase footfall.

SEOJet is suited to any business looking for reliable Digital Marketing support, whether they sell products, services, or operate locally. The team works with a limited number of clients to ensure each project gets the focus it needs.

Eco by Naty Nappies and Pull-On Pants Receive Top Marks from First Time Mums UK Parent Review Panel

Lifestyle

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16/05/2025

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Eco by Naty Nappies and Pull-On Pants Receive Top Marks from First Time Mums UK Parent Review Panel

Eco by Naty’s commitment to sustainability and baby comfort has been recognised by First Time Mums UK, with its Eco Pull-On Pants and Eco Nappies both receiving a ‘Test & Rated’ endorsement based on glowing parent feedback from across the UK.

The award followed a detailed review involving real families, with product scores based on performance, ease of use, comfort, and environmental attributes.

Eco Nappies

Twenty-four families took part in the Eco Nappies testing, most of whom (79.2%) had infants between 0 and 12 months old. The nappies earned a strong absorbency rating of 4.38 out of 5, offering excellent protection from leaks.

Softness and comfort emerged as standout features, receiving a high score of 4.58. Parents appreciated the nappies’ gentle feel on their babies’ skin, which helped prevent irritation and nappy rash.

With leak protection rated at 4.21, families were reassured by the product’s reliability, even during heavier messes. Ratings of 4.33 for ease of adjustment and 4.79 for disposal also reinforced the practicality of the nappies.

The nappies’ eco-friendly composition and absence of harsh chemicals contributed to an overall satisfaction score of 4.33 out of 5. Many participants praised the brand’s sustainable materials and user-friendly design.

An impressive 22 out of 24 families said they would recommend Eco by Naty nappies — a clear endorsement of the brand’s performance and values.

Among the most appreciated features were their cloud-like softness, capacity to stay dry overnight, and thoughtful design — including a back tab to help prevent upward leakage.

Eco Pull-On Pants

The Eco Pull-On Pants were tested by 22 mothers with a range of children — from younger babies aged 4–12 months to toddlers over two years old. A majority (54.5%) used the pants on toddlers aged one and above.

Parents rated the pants highly for absorbency (4.45), softness (4.50), and leak protection (4.36), noting their effectiveness for both daytime and overnight wear.

Ease of removal and disposal scored 4.23, with participants complimenting the addition of a disposal tab and the clean design. Parents found the product particularly practical, highlighting its comfort and convenience during busy routines.

The overall satisfaction score came in at 4.23 out of 5. The sustainable materials, chemical-free approach, and reliable performance all contributed to strong parental approval.

Reflecting the positive experience, 20 of the 22 families said they would recommend Eco by Naty pull-on pants to others — reinforcing growing interest in eco-friendly baby products that don’t compromise on quality.

Hanna Longstaff Asks: “What Are You Left With When the Jab Wears Off?” The Emotional Burden Ozempic Can’t Cure

News Desk

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16/05/2025

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Hanna Longstaff Asks: “What Are You Left With When the Jab Wears Off?” The Emotional Burden Ozempic Can’t Cure

Hanna Longstaff, founder of the MFB Method and widely recognised as The Eating Behaviour Expert, is urging the UK to slow its rush towards weight-loss injections and instead consider the emotional and psychological roots of overeating.

With around 13% of American adults now using medications like Ozempic, Wegovy and Mounjaro, the UK is following suit — driven by viral social media posts, celebrity testimonials and the allure of fast weight loss. But Longstaff sees worrying signs that the rush to medicate is overshadowing the real problem.

“These drugs may suppress appetite, but they don’t address the real reasons why people overeat,” said Longstaff, whose MFB Method combines neuroscience and behavioural coaching to treat the core issues driving disordered eating.

“Many believe their weight is the problem – when in reality, it’s a symptom of a deeper unmet emotional need, they are trying to fill with food. Until the root cause is addressed, no jab, medication or crash-diet will offer a lasting solution. It’s time to talk about the cravings, coping and confidence-gaps that medication alone cannot fix.”

Longstaff cautions that while the appeal of quick results is understandable, these jabs often provide only temporary relief — and worse, they may foster dependency. Weight frequently returns once the medication ends, and users are often left without the tools to maintain change.

“It’s not sustainable, and it was never meant to be,” she added. “These medications weren’t designed for lifelong use in otherwise healthy people. If we don’t fix the underlying patterns, the weight — and the emotional struggle — will keep coming back.”

There’s also a growing list of physical side effects: stomach issues, tiredness, mood dips, muscle deterioration and even kidney concerns — many of which Longstaff highlights as being particularly harmful to women’s long-term health.

“We’re seeing people lose lean muscle, which compromises metabolic health and increases frailty. It’s not just about being lighter — it’s about being well.”

From a healthcare standpoint, the cost of the trend could soon become unmanageable. While individuals turn to online clinics or private prescriptions, the NHS may end up bearing the brunt of treating adverse outcomes. International reports from 2024 flagged hospitalisations and fatalities potentially linked to these medications — although causal links are still being reviewed.

“It’s a ticking time bomb,” Longstaff warned. “The long-term impact — both personal and societal — is being massively underestimated.”

Longstaff believes the obsession with instant results reflects broader cultural habits. “We’ve trained our brains to crave fast solutions — whether it’s weight loss, food delivery, or scrolling for dopamine. But true change takes time. We must stop chasing shortcuts and start listening to what our bodies and behaviours are trying to tell us.”

Her call is for a wholesale shift to therapeutic, whole-person approaches. The MFB Method offers an alternative — a blend of behavioural science, self-awareness, and compassion that aims to make food freedom a reality.

“Weight loss should be the side effect of healing — not the goal,” she said. “Until we start treating the cause rather than the symptom, we will continue to see people caught in this cycle of despair and dependency. There is a better way, but we have to be willing to look deeper.”

To explore her method and resources, visit www.mindfoodbodycoach.com.

The Perfect Union: Beer and European Cheese

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