Newcastle Labour representatives are calling on the government to provide fair funding for the city’s schools as rising costs place increasing pressure on teaching and pupil support.
Changes to the national funding system are failing to reflect fully the costs schools face or the needs of communities across Newcastle.
Schools are having to manage increases in staffing, pensions and other running costs while responding to growing demand for pastoral care and specialist educational support.
Headteachers and governors are working extremely hard to protect classroom provision, but many schools face increasingly difficult decisions. Continued financial pressure could affect staffing, subject choices, class sizes and the additional assistance available to children who need it.
Every Newcastle child deserves an excellent education, regardless of their postcode or family income. National funding decisions must therefore recognise differences in local need and provide schools with the resources required to give every pupil a fair opportunity.
Newcastle’s Labour MPs will continue raising these concerns in Parliament. Our Labour-led council will also work with schools, families and education partners to make the strongest possible case for the city.
Labour councillors hear directly from parents, teachers and school governors through their work in local communities. Their experiences will continue informing our campaign for a fair settlement.
Education is an investment in Newcastle’s future. Properly funded schools help children fulfil their potential, strengthen communities and give young people the skills needed to participate in the city’s economy.
We will continue challenging any funding arrangement that leaves Newcastle pupils at a disadvantage.
Catherine McKinnell MP said:
“Every child in Newcastle deserves a properly funded education. Labour will continue pressing the government for a settlement that reflects rising costs and gives our schools the teachers, specialist staff and resources they need.”