South Essex heads and teachers demanding more school funding

ANOTHER two school bosses have joined the chorus of critics demanding government action over fears of schools being unable to stay afloat due to a lack of funding.

Hundreds of headteachers and academy trust bosses across the country, including a number from south Essex, have signed a letter to new Prime Minister Liz Truss, demanding more cash for schools.

They have also raised concerns about the viability and sustainability of schools.

The letter, put together by The Confederation of School Trusts, warns ministers of “grave concerns” if ministers fail to provide extra cash as inflation soars.

Robin Bevan, headteacher at Southend High School for Boys, said: “For more than a decade, austerity funding levels have forced schools and colleges to increase class sizes, reduce staffing levels, and operate with declining reserves.

“The current economic situation has rapidly accelerated the pending crisis in school funding. The Government’s recent commitment to limit the impact of astronomical energy bills for six months is welcome but short-lived.

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“Proposed pay increases for staff have not been funded and are making it impossible to balance school budgets. Levels of school funding, recently announced for next school year, are set to rise for most local schools by only 0.5 percent.”

Andrew Cooper, chief executive of South East Essex Academy Trust – a group of seven schools in Rochford, Westcliff, Hadleigh and Benfleet – added: “Along with over 350 colleagues nationally, I have signed the letter to seek clarification on the government’s position and to state our grave concerns about the viability and sustainability of schools and trusts if there is no further investment in school funding within this term of parliament.

“It’s important we use our voice to ensure that schools have the resources that they need to provide the best education for our young people.”

Laurie Burton, who is both a teacher and the councilor responsible for children and learning, agreed.

He said: “By prioritizing tax cuts for the wealthy over support for schools, many residents will be asking if the government has its priorities correct”.

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