Significant spending pressure will hit Redcar & Cleveland schools next year

Ian Swales, Lib Dem campaigner for the Redcar Constituency (pictured), expressed dismay today at the Government's grant to local schools for next year. He is writing to the Secretary of State for Children, Schools and Families to plead for a higher allocation.

He said, "While nationally the Government is giving schools 4.1% extra cash, Redcar & Cleveland schools are only getting 2.1% extra next year. Neither of these figures make full allowance for public sector inflation currently running at 7%.

"It is appalling that our local schools are getting such a raw deal compared with other schools across the country. Falling pupil numbers locally are given as the reason. Even with falling school rolls, classes still need teachers, buildings have to be maintained and office overheads covered.

"The impact is alarming for our schools. They will face the prospect of employing less staff, buying fewer books and resources and cutting back on extra activities.

"It seems inconceivable that the Council will be able to bail out schools from their other resources. It already faces the need for massive cuts in spending because of unfunded commitments and the need to make other efficiency savings to meet reductions in Government grants."