Headteachers from schools across England are raising alarms about the severe financial struggles confronting educational institutions, describing the situation as akin to “death by a thousand cuts.” This warning comes in light of a report from the Institute for Fiscal Studies (IFS), which reveals that the anticipated rise in costs will outweigh available funding for education, despite recent financial support.
Concerns Over Funding and Support
The Association of School and College Leaders (ASCL) has warned that without substantial government investment, schools could be forced to tighten their budgets further.
This scenario threatens essential pastoral care and could narrow curriculum options.
If these funding challenges persist, larger class sizes may also become reality.
According to the IFS report, mainstream school funding is projected to grow by 2.8% in cash terms for the 2025-26 fiscal year.
However, this increase is expected to fall short of the forecasted 3.6% rise in costs mainly driven by expected salary hikes for teachers.
Impacts on Educational Opportunities
ASCL’s policy director pointed out that the report underscores the ongoing financial strain that many schools are facing.
As a result, institutions might need to make cuts to resources and support, which would limit educational opportunities for students.
She stressed that while schools have managed to navigate financial pressures over the last 15 years, the current situation is no longer sustainable, urging the government to step up its investment in education.
The IFS analysis indicates a significant overall boost in school expenditure, with an increase of around £8 billion over the last five years.
This funding surge resulted in an 11% rise in real terms per pupil.
However, much of this additional funding has been directed towards high needs education, which is expected to receive a further £2.3 billion over the next two years.
Future Challenges for Universities
A researcher from the IFS stated that the upcoming government spending review will require difficult choices regarding education funding, hinting at potential budget cuts across multiple departments due to tight public finances.
Colleges and sixth forms, which have historically been underfunded, have seen some recent increases but still find themselves at a disadvantage.
By 2025, the funding for 16 to 18-year-olds in colleges is projected to be around 11% lower than it was in 2010, while sixth form funding will be roughly 23% less.
The NAHT school leaders’ union general secretary mentioned that several schools are already grappling with financial difficulties and worry about their future viability.
He emphasized the importance of acknowledging these challenges in the upcoming spending review to avoid further detrimental measures, such as layoffs or cuts to essential educational resources.
Additionally, the IFS pointed out that university students in England might face rising tuition fees soon due to increased staff costs and dwindling revenue from international enrollments.
Unlike schools, universities will not receive any compensation for the elevated employer national insurance contributions outlined in a previous budget.
To help alleviate some financial burdens, the government has announced the first tuition fee increase in eight years, adjusting it for inflation to a new total of £9,535.
However, the IFS believes that this adjustment is merely a stopgap and anticipates additional fee hikes in the future.
A spokesperson for the Department for Education reaffirmed their commitment to improving educational opportunities for children.
They pointed out that budget measures have boosted school funding to about £63.9 billion for the 2025-26 financial year, which includes £1 billion earmarked for students with high needs.
The representative expressed the government’s dedication to addressing fundamental issues within the education sector while collaborating with schools and local authorities to ensure resources are allocated fairly to support student success and development.
Source: The guardian