Following publication of the second part of the National Funding Formula (NFF) consultation, school leaders across West Sussex are saddened by the fact that for many schools the financial situation does not look like it is improving either in the short or longer terms. Key headlines are as follows:
Using data from WSCC and the DFE’s own database, under current NFF proposals the following will occur:
The new NFF arrangements are relatively complicated and more in depth analysis can be found via this document.
Headteachers in all West Sussex schools are dismayed that our financial situation looks so bleak. As a consequence, our fears about reduced staffing levels, increased class sizes and reductions in curricular and pastoral provision are likely to become a reality in either the short term, medium term or both.
School Leaders are united in their belief that the current situation is both unfair and unsustainable. Previously we were made to feel that pupils in West Sussex were “Worth Less”, under the new arrangements they simply don’t appear to be “Worth Enough”.
Our first step is to raise important questions with ministers from the DFE and our own local MPs. We are happy to share these questions with you and would urge you to raise similar concerns with your local representatives.
We will continue to do everything in our power to maintain standards of care and provision but also feel that it is important to let you know just how bad matters are at present. Your support as we continue with our campaign will be vital.