County council backs education funding campaign

Every headteacher in West Sussex has signed up to the Worth Less? campaign, calling for a better deal from the Government.

West Sussex is one of the poorest-funded authorities in the country, receiving more than £400 less per pupil than the national average – the equivalent of £41million per year.

In November, the Government announced an overhaul of the funding system by 2017 – but campaigners have asked for an additional payment to help make ends meet between now and then.

Louise Goldsmith, leader West Sussex County Council (photo submitted). SUS-150813-103444001

Council leader Louise Goldsmith said the Worth Less? campaign was to be welcomed.

She said: “Providing the very best education for the young people of West Sussex is one of our key priorities.

“The West Sussex economy will only continue to flourish in the future if we develop the skills of our children and students and help them reach their full potential.

“With our MPs, the county council has previously campaigned for a fairer funding deal for West Sussex schools and we very much applaud the government’s decision to hold a consultation in the new year regarding a new national funding formula.

“We will actively contribute to this consultation and look forward to hearing the outcome in due course.

“But we also echo the two fundamental points made by headteachers for a better interim settlement from Government as well as the fairest long-term allocation of resources.

“We are proud of the superb achievements of our schools and hugely value their contribution to the forthcoming debate through this campaign.”

Support for the Worth Less? campaign has soared, with more than 8,000 people so far ‘liking’ its Facebook page.

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