Category General

Back to School with Glow, October 2026

Back to School with Glow, October 2026

The October 2026 "Back to School with Glow" news page facilitates access to the latest updates and resources related to Microsoft, Google, Glow Blogs, National Apps, and AI in Glow Data Privacy. It aims to provide useful information and encourages user feedback on experiences with Glow.

Theme Retirement Update: Phase 2 – Removal from Theme Selection

graphic dipicting make, agama pro and yoko themes being archived

Phase 2 of the retirement process for Yoko, Agama Pro, and Make themes has begun. New installations are prohibited, but existing sites remain unaffected. Users are encouraged to plan transitions to alternative themes, with recommendations provided. Full retirement will occur later, and ample support will be available before changes are implemented.

Glow Blogs: Fixes and Updates

Computer graphic and headline text

Glow Blogs has implemented various fixes and updates to enhance site performance and security. Key updates include restoring the Tiled Gallery Block, fixing widget visuals, and resolving translation issues. Plugins have received minor updates and themes have improved accessibility, particularly for the Twenty series themes. Users are advised to choose modern themes as older ones will be retired.

Managing Site Privacy and Media Files in Glow Blogs

Title and image of blog site on a computer screen with graphic security padlock logo

When changing privacy settings on Glow Blogs with extensive media, all media files require relocation, which can be time-consuming. To ensure smooth transfers, delete unnecessary media, wait for transfers to complete, and monitor progress. For hiding specific content, use draft status, pending review, or password protection instead of site-wide privacy changes.

National Webinars: Google for Education

National webinars - Google for Education

AI is rapidly evolving, offering educators tools to enhance lesson planning and student engagement. Two upcoming webinars focus on the latest features of Gemini and Gemini Notebook for educators using Google Workspace via Glow. These sessions aim to showcase practical applications that simplify teaching workflows and promote responsible AI use.

Adobe Express for Education: Back to School 2026

Adobe Express for Education graphic

The Back to School 2026 update highlights live lesson schedules and significant events including Roald Dahl Day and World Mental Health Day. Training sessions cover Arts, Humanities, Science, and Maths, promoting inclusivity. Additionally, resources like lesson plans and e-books are available for primary and secondary educators.

Adobe Express: Back to School Updates

Adobe Express for Education graphic

Live lessons for ages 7-13 are 75 minutes long, with a 40-minute natural break and video recordings available for later use. Various sessions include topics for different occasions, while new Adobe Creative educator training is also offered. Exciting lesson topics are provided in an accompanying eBook for the Scottish classroom.

NotebookLM is now Gemini Notebook

Gemini Notebook graphic with a laptop and the Glow logo

Google has rebranded NotebookLM as Gemini Notebook, enhancing its functionality within the Google ecosystem. This AI-powered tool aids in research and learning, allowing users to upload materials for summarisation and interactive engagement. It supports diverse outputs like podcasts and infographics, facilitating efficient study processes and content creation.

Prompting Progress: Bringing Beowulf to life using AI within Glow

Prompting Progress, How Artificial Intelligence is reshaping the classroom

A Primary teacher from Calderwood Primary School shares their experience using Gemini Education and Notebook to teach the Talk for Writing program. The tools facilitated lesson planning, engagement, and differentiation for various learners. The teacher emphasises their value in creating resources and adapting materials for better student understanding and inclusivity.

Canva Education – Live Webinar Opportunities

Canva Education within Glow

Canva Education is a free platform tailored for educators and learners, providing tools for creating engaging visual content. It features templates and collaboration options that enhance digital literacy. Upcoming webinars will help educators integrate Canva into their classrooms, focusing on creativity, differentiated learning, and efficient design practices.