Earlier today Stephen wrote to the Chancellor demanding that more money be made available to local schools in East Ham.
A number of constituents contacted Stephen in advance of the Autumn Statement later this week. They cited research published by SchoolCuts, which show that 92 per cent of mainstream school face real term cuts from April. The data suggests that nearly 18,500 schools across the country will be unable to cope with the cost increases in 2024/2025 without making cuts to education provision.
In July, schools had been told to expect a 2.7 per cent funding increase per pupil. This has now been revised down to 1.9 per cent. For primary schools this means £45 less per pupil, whilst for secondary schools it is £55 less per pupil. The situation in East Ham is particularly concerning with 37 out of 37 schools facing cuts to funding next year.
Speaking about the research, Stephen said: "I am deeply concerned by these figures. Its a desperate situation that every school in East Ham will face real term funding cuts next year.
“Ministers need to re-consider the funding model for schools and provide much needed investment to ensure pupils get the best education possible.”