Waveney Valley MP, Adrian Ramsay, calls on the Government to help rural schools funding crisis

An MP has called on education bosses to urgently address the funding crisis affecting rural schools in Norfolk and Suffolk.

In a letter sent to Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson, Waveney Valley MP Adrian Ramsay highlighted the mounting challenges that schools face due to insufficient funding.

The Green Party co-leader warned that some schools were struggling to maintain the same level of educational provision, with inflation leading to increased operational costs, while funding has not kept pace with demand.

He said: “While national pay rises for staff are to be welcomed, the fact that they have been only partly funded by the Government is putting further pressure on school budgets, resulting in a reduced staffing model, larger class sizes, and diminished support for students.

“Schools are facing difficult decisions about staffing levels, redundancies and service reductions, along with the associated impact on staff morale.”

The letter also pointed to the deteriorating condition of school buildings, saying: “I am aware of one school which has a leaking science block roof. This has been a health and safety risk, while negatively impacting lesson delivery and student morale.

“Additionally, rising energy costs are placing further strain on school budgets, and aging heating systems are leaving pupils cold during some lessons.

“Adequate funding for critical maintenance and repairs is essential to ensure that students can learn in a safe, secure and comfortable environment.”