Along with fellow West Sussex MPs, Tim Loughton (East Worthing and Shoreham) met the Minister for Schools, Nick Gibb MP, to press for the rapid introduction of the National Funding Formula (NFF) this morning. They also asked for transitional funding for West Sussex schools until the NFF comes in.
The Minister made clear that the Secretary of State for Education, Justine Greening MP, and the Department for Education are well aware that West Sussex schools are underfunded compared to the national average.
The Education Secretary has described the current school funding system as "arbitrary, unfair and out-of-date.” She has announced that the new system, following consultation, will be introduced starting in September 2018. The new system will improve the funding of West Sussex schools.
Currently, West Sussex schools receive £4196 per pupil against a national average of £4612. If West Sussex was brought into line with the national average this would mean an additional £41m per annum for education in West Sussex.
MPs pushed hard for ‘transitional funding' to bridge the gap between the current funding system and the new approach. No decision has yet been taken on transitional funding. The Minister heard the case and has promised to consider closely the representations made.
Shortly after the meeting, Tim, along with other West Sussex MP and teachers, students and parents from West Sussex schools, delivered a petition asking for fairer funding for West Sussex schools to Number 10.
West Sussex MPs are also taking the case direct to the Secretary of State in a meeting to be held on 2nd November.
Tim said:
“It is encouraging that both the Secretary of State and the Minister appreciate just how much West Sussex is losing out.
“The gross disparities that currently exist between West Sussex and others areas is not fair and it puts the children living here at a disadvantage for no other reason that where they happen to live.
“It was wonderful to be able to deliver the petition to the door of Number 10 with parents, students and teachers from schools in West Sussex.
“I can absolutely assure all the parents, students and teachers who have been contacting me on this subject that West Sussex MPs are fighting to secure better funding for our schools and we are with you all the way.”