UK Disorder: 15-Year-Old First Charged with Rioting

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News in Brief: january 21, 2026

Here’s a roundup of the latest news, from a rioting case in Tyneside too A-Level results and developments in the Middle East and the US.

Tyneside Rioting Case

A defendant is due to appear at Tyneside Youth Court on Thursday to enter a plea related to rioting charges.Rioting carries a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison, which is double the maximum sentence for violent disorder.

Bridget Phillipson on Private School Closures

Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson has suggested that recent closures of private schools are driven by a failure to attract enough students and “big budget shortfalls,” rather then solely by Labor’s VAT tax policy. Several private schools have cited the VAT changes as a contributing factor to their decisions to close.

situation in Gaza

According to senior US officials speaking to The New York Times, Benjamin Netanyahu‘s forces have significantly weakened Hamas but will likely be unable to fully eliminate the terror group. This assessment comes ahead of negotiations in Doha on Thursday.

A-Level Results Day 2026

Today marks A-Level results day, and initial reports indicate that pupils have exceeded expectations, with 5,000 more A* grades awarded compared to last year. UCAS is providing guidance and support for students navigating their next steps, whether that’s university or choice pathways. The Guardian offers advice and inspiration for students receiving their results.

Matthew Perry Examination

US media reports that at least one person has been arrested in connection with the death of actor Matthew Perry. Further details are emerging as the investigation continues.The BBC is following the story closely.

Hawk ‘Head of Seagull Security’

A hawk has been employed as a unique form of security to deter seagulls from stealing chips. This innovative approach is gaining attention for its effectiveness in protecting food from opportunistic birds.

Key Takeaways:

  • Rioting charges carry a significant potential prison sentence.
  • The Education Secretary attributes private school closures to enrollment and financial challenges.
  • US officials believe complete elimination of hamas is unlikely.
  • A-Level results show an increase in top grades.
  • An arrest has been made in the investigation into Matthew Perry’s death.
  • A hawk is being used to deter seagulls.

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