What You Need To Know

For the past 25 years, Wales has radically reshaped its education system, taking a radically different path from England. But it remains far ehind every other home nation in performance in reading, maths and science, according to a new report. So what's behind these poor scores? It launched a play-based curriculum for young children, abolished school league tables, and scrapped tests like SATs traditionally held in primary school. Its new curriculum gives schools greater freedom over what they teach, aiming to develop critical thinking. But it has its critics, and the Programme for International Student Assessment (PISA) assessments don't make for pretty reading for the Welsh government. In the 2025 results, Wales was the lowest-performing UK nation, something that has happened in each of the tests since 2006, and the gap with England in particular is widening. We'll investigate why Wales is performing so poorly. Is it all down to the nation's alternative approach, or are there other factors at play?

Germany’s far-right, anti-immigration AfD party is on course for a major victory in the state of Saxony-Anhalt, potentially marking the first time a far-right party has led a government in Germany since World War II. With a campaign fronted by TikTok star Ulrich Siegmund, the AfD has surged in popularity, but it’s not without controversy. A win would likely send shockwaves through German politics and across Europe, heaping the pressure on Chancellor Friedrich Merz who is unpopular with voters. In this video, we break down the AfD's rise, look at their policies, and what a breakthrough victory could mean for Germany's future. Featuring an in-depth interview with British-German historian and journalist Katja Hoyer, we look at how Germany here and why the outcome is so important.

This year's 'Godzilla El Niño' is on track to be the biggest we've ever seen. It's predicted to trigger flooding and drought that could affect the price of shopping in the UK. El Niño happens every few years when the Pacific Ocean warms up in a specific pattern near the equator. Trade winds weaken or even reverse and, as a result, warm water flows back east across the Pacific, taking the rain with it. This can shut down monsoon rains in some regions while triggering unusually heavy rainfall and flooding in others. The knock on of this year's El Niño is likely to be one of the most dramatic ever, effecting nearly everything on it is something you eat, drink, or wear. ITV News Science Correspondent Martin Stew explains what we can expect and how much it might cost you.

Nigel Farage will compete with a record 33 other candidates in the Clacton by-election, despite several political parties refusing to stand. The Reform UK leader triggered the by-election in what he called a "people versus the establishment” contest, protesting against media and parliamentary scrutiny of his finances. Labour, the Conservatives, the Liberal Democrats and the Green Party have all boycotted the by-election and said they will not be putting forward a candidate. However, the public will still have 34 people to choose from when they head to polling stations on August 13, Tendring District Council confirmed. In this episode of What You Need To Know, ITV News reporter Lorna Shaddick looks at why the Clacton by-election is unlike any other in British history. Here is a full list of candidates in the Clacton by-election: - Joseph 77 (Independent) - Adham Alkhatip (The Forward Party) - Count Binface (Count Binface Party) - Nick The Incredible Flying Brick (The Official Monster Raving Loony Party) - Tony Cane (Independent) - Woke Trump Carrzee (Independent) - William Stuart James Clouston (Social Democratic Party) - Rees Cowne (Independent) - Glenn Charles Cummings (Independent) - Martin Davies (Freedom Alliance – Real People, Real Alternative!) - Andy Erlam (Independent) - Nigel Farage (Reform UK) - Attieh Fard (Independent) - Laurence Fox (The Reclaim Party) - Tony Francis (Independent) - Robin Green (Independent) - Abi Hookway (Independent) - Howling Laud Hope (The Official Monster Raving Loony Party) - Stephen Richard Ingram (Independent) - Amy Morris (Independent) - Derrick Norbert Morris (Independent) - Michael Noel O’Keeffe (Independent) - Martyn OBrien (Independent) - Nick Pelas (Independent) - Ketankumar Pipaliya (UK VOICE safer and stronger UK) - Daniel Pocock (Independent) - James Ransley (Consensus Party Candidate) - Gerry Smith (Independent) - Kai Stephens (British Democrats) - John Stevens (Rejoin EU) - Baron Von Thunderclap (The Official Monster Raving Loony Party) - Pamela Walford (Independent) - Marcus White (Everyone is God Party) - Marc Wilkinson (Independent)

Wildfires burning in France and Spain, heatwaves hitting the whole of Europe, and "coolcations" on the rise. For decades, Brits have travelled to Southern Europe to get away for the summer, but could climate change be about to change that forever? Is the traditional European summer holiday as we know it a thing of the past? In this explainer, we look at what is causing the wildfires this summer, the weather patterns causing record temperatures, and why some tourists are looking to the north in search of cooler climates.

Thousands of young people from India’s Gen Z have taken to the streets of New Delhi as part of the viral Cockroach Janta Party movement, clashing with police and demanding political change. The party, which started as an online joke has rapidly grown into a nationwide campaign, and become a rare public challenge to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s government, with many calling for Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan to resign. In this video we’ll look at how India’s so-called “Cockroach” movement grew out of frustrations over alleged exam scandals, unemployment, and government accountability, and what the future might hold for its supporters.

Argentina v England is one of the bitterest rivalries in football - and the two sides are preparing to meet in a World Cup semi final. But where did it all begin. Its actually not with the controversial 'Hand of God' goal, scored by Diego Maradona in 1986, nor with the Falklands conflict of 1982. These two sides first engaged in a bitter clash during the 1966 World Cup. We'll explain what happened then, and how the rivalry has played out for over 60 years.

Gianni Infantino is the most powerful man in world football, but he never seems to be far from controversy. From rescinding red cards to sky-high ticket prices, we look at how the former Swiss lawyer climbed his way to the top of FIFA, how he's managed to hold onto power so successfully, and what the might future hold for him.

The UK is in the middle of its third heatwave of the year, with temperatures climbing into the mid-30s in parts of the country. So how hot could it get? How long will it last? And how many heatwaves could we see this summer? In this video, we'll explain what causes heatwaves, why heat in the UK can feel more intense than in many other countries, and the events already being disrupted by soaring temperatures.

England fans have turned their attention to Mexico after the Three Lions reached the last 16 of the World Cup, thanks to two late goals from Harry Kane. The side will face Mexico at Estadio Azteca, which sits more than 7,300ft above sea level, at 1am BST on Monday. At Estadio Azteca's height, oxygen intake can fall by more than 7% until the body has time to acclimatise. That can reduce stamina and make it harder for players to sprint or press for long periods. So, how are the squad hoping to overcome the altitude?

Continental Europe is in the grip of a deadly heatwave that has claimed hundreds of lives, including three children in France, as temperatures soared above 40C. France and Spain were among the worst affected as the continent sweltered under a heat dome, a vast area of stagnant high pressure. In Spain, 212 people have died due to the extreme heat over the past week, according to data from the country’s mortality monitoring system, MoMo. At least 48 people have drowned in France, seeking relief from the record-breaking temperatures, including a 21-year-old French footballer with a second-division club. In the UK meanwhile, the UK’s hottest June day on record has been broken again during this week's heatwave, with a provisional temperature of 36.4C recorded in Yeovilton, Somerset. This surpasses the high of 36.1C set on Wednesday in Gosport, Hampshire, the Met Office said. It comes after the Met Office extended its red warning for extreme heat for Friday as the peak of a heatwave affecting most of England and Wales are set to shift eastwards. But what is causing these records to be smashed, and this brutal weather to continue? And how long will the heat last? We explain the 'heat dome' that has descended upon Europe.

Tomorrow, voters in the Makerfield constituency head to the polls for one of the most unusual and consequential by-elections in modern history. That is because Mayor of Greater Manchester Andy Burnham is standing for Labour, and is expected to launch a direct challenge to the Prime Minister should he win. But will he win? Makerfield by-election polls suggest a tight two-horse race between Reform UK's candidate Robert Kenyon and Labour candidate Andy Burnham. But there is another party changing the race: Rupert Lowe's Restore Britain, and its candidate Rebecca Shepherd. If they perform well in the by-election on Thursday, it could benefit Andy Burnham more than anyone. Here we take a look at who Restore Britain are, what they believe in, and why they are clashing with Nigel Farage and Reform UK despite coming from a similar wing of politics.

Trump, ticket prices, and thunderstorms… The 2026 World Cup is about to kick off, but it could be a bumpy ride. We’ve already seen one of the referees banned from entering the United States, Iran’s team being forced to move their training base to Mexico, and FIFA President Gianni Infantino telling everyone to ‘chill’. So here are the biggest problems the tournament could face.

In this ITV News explainer, we examine why tensions between the United States and Cuba are escalating, how Donald Trump’s approach to foreign policy has fuelled speculation about Cuba’s future, and what options could be on the table for Washington. Presented by ITV News reporter Will Tullis, this video explores the historical roots of US-Cuba hostility, the impact of decades of sanctions and embargoes, and the growing economic crisis facing ordinary Cubans. We look at whether increased pressure on Havana could lead to regime change, a “friendly takeover”, further economic isolation, or a worsening humanitarian situation. Featuring expert analysis from ITV News US Correspondent Dan Rivers and Lillian Guerra, professor of Cuban and Caribbean history at the University of Florida, the video breaks down the political, military and economic factors shaping the relationship between Washington and Havana.

Average annual energy bills are set to go up by more than £200 a year from July, after energy regulator Ofgem announced a 13% rise in the energy price cap. It's largely down to the impact of the Iran War, but with the UK generating more electricity from renewable sources than ever before, why aren't we feeling the benefits in our bills? The answer is more complicated than you might think, and it all comes down to how energy prices are set in the UK... We explain what's going on, why renewables haven't made your bills cheaper, and if drilling in the North Sea might be the answer.

The Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and Uganda was declared a public health emergency by the World Health Organisation. Ebola is a highly contagious virus that can be contracted via bodily fluids such as vomit, blood, or semen. The disease it causes is rare, but can be severe and often fatal. In a post on X, the World Health Organisation (WHO) said the outbreak does not meet the criteria of a pandemic emergency, like Covid-19, and advised against the closure of international borders. ITV News explains what you need to know about the Ebola outbreak so far.

China has vowed for decades to bring Taiwan under its control, but under President Xi Jinping, pressure on the self-governing island has intensified dramatically. With the US committed to defending Taiwan, there are fears that the world could be edging closer to a conflict between two nuclear superpowers. ITV News Asia Correspondent Debi Edward examines why Taiwan matters so much to Beijing, how China could attempt to take the island, and what the consequences could mean for the global economy and international security. This explainer explores the history behind China’s claim to Taiwan, the rise of Taiwanese identity, and the growing military, economic and political pressure being exerted by Beijing. It also looks at the possible scenarios experts believe are most likely — from a Chinese naval blockade and cyber attacks to the prospect of a full-scale invasion. With Taiwan producing many of the world’s most advanced semiconductors, any conflict in the region could have global consequences far beyond Asia. The video also examines the role of the United States, President Donald Trump’s position on Taiwan, and whether America would intervene in a war with China. As tensions rise across the Taiwan Strait, this is what you need to know about one of the most consequential geopolitical disputes in the world today. Contributor: Ben Bland - Director, Asia-Pacific Programme, Chatham House

Labour and the Conservatives have dominated British politics for more than 100 years. But local and devolved elections being held across the UK could be about to change that forever, and potentially mark the end for Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer. ITV News' election expert Professor Jane Green has been given access to YouGov polling data that suggests that we might be at a tipping point, where challenger parties like Reform UK, the Lib Dems, the Green Party, Plaid Cymru, and the SNP could be set for some of their best results ever. In this video, we’ll look at what this data reveals, how Nigel Farage’s Reform UK and Zack Polanski’s Green Party could potentially unseat Labour and the Conservatives, and how this all means the future of British politics could be set to change indefinitely.

The King and Queen will meet with US President Donald Trump in person five times over four days as they try to patch up the strained relations between the US and UK amid the conflict in Iran. And everyone involved in the visit admits it is the most risky diplomatic trip of King Charles’ reign so far. Trump has said Starmer is "no Winston Churchill", he picked on his voice, shared social media posts mocking his British counterpart and called Royal Navy warships "toys" compared to American ones. But the prime minister put his faith in the so-called 'soft-power' of the monarchy, which he said, "is often able to reach through the decades on a situation like this". Only stills photographers have been invited into the Oval Office when the King meets the President, which limits the chance of Donald Trump saying something awkward in front of TV cameras. But no one can ever be confident that Trump will stick to his script at a state dinner in Washington. What the King and Queen will not be able to do on the trip is see those Epstein survivors who have written to the palace asking for a meeting. There is currently a criminal investigation in the UK into the King's younger brother, Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, for the offence of misconduct in public office. Andrew has consistently denied any wrongdoing, but he was stripped of his prince title, his dukedom and his home in Windsor. Other police assessments are going on into claims of trafficking young women into the UK for sex. The former Prince Andrew has consistently denied any wrongdoing, but he was stripped of his prince title, his dukedom and his home in Windsor over what the palace called his "errors of judgement". A Buckingham Palace source said: "We fully understand and appreciate the survivors' position, but can only reiterate that our position is clear that anything that could potentially impact on ongoing police inquiries and assessments and any potential criminal investigation that could result from that would be to the detriment of the survivors themselves in their pursuit of justice." However small the risk, it is one palace officials are not prepared to take. However small the risk, it is one palace officials are not prepared to take.

The appointment of Peter Mandelson as the UK's ambassador to Washington has led to a series of scandals and resignations, after revelations about the extent of his relationship with convicted paedophile Jeffrey Epstein came to light. Lord Mandelson was sacked as ambassador in 2025, after information was published by the US government as part of the Epstein files. Despite admitting to being aware of this relationship, Prime Minister Keir Starmer has insisted Mandelson "lied repeatedly" to No 10 about the extent of his relationship with Epstein, before and during his tenure as ambassador. The PM claimed that if he had known then what he later found out, Mandelson "would never have been anywhere near government". Mandelson has since apologised for his relationship with Epstein, claiming he did not witness wrongdoing in his interactions with the late financier. In relation to his arrest on suspicion of misconduct in public office, the former ambassador has claimed not to have acted in any way criminally and said he was not motivated by financial gain. He insists his priority is to cooperate with police and clear his name. ITV News explores the timeline of events surrounding Mandelson's controversial appointment.