Regional disparity in extra school funding
Department for Education figures show that additional funding for 2020/21 will differ significantly from region to region.
The increases will ensure every secondary school receives a minimum of £5,000 per pupil, however the regional analysis shows some areas will benefit from greater additional funding than others.
The North East will receive £73 million, significantly less than all other regions, due to its fewer overall pupil numbers. However, when looking at the percentage increase per pupil, the North East is receiving less than six other regions, with an increase of 3.8%.
Schools North East Interim Director, Chris Zarraga, said, ‘The data shows that there are significant disparities across the country in how the additional funding is distributed. Despite the high levels of long term disadvantage in our region, we will not be receiving adequate funding to support our hard working school leaders or our students as they try to narrow the attainment gap with more advantaged areas. Far greater support from the Government is needed, specifically targeted at those areas dealing with the greatest problems.’
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