School Funding 2023-06-12
2023-06-12
TAGS
Response quality
Questions & Answers
Q1
Partial Answer
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Context
The MP noted concerns from a constituent teacher about the adequacy of school funding and its impact on children's futures. The teacher described the government's pay offer as insufficient and stated that his school had to make redundancies due to budget cuts.
Liam, a teacher in my constituency, described the Government's pay offer as akin to “a mouldy carrot dangled in front of us to lead us back to the despair of the classroom.” He works in a school that has had to make redundancies due to insufficient budgets. Does the Minister understand the impact that Government cuts to school budgets are having on children's futures? Can he honestly say that he is giving all children equal opportunities?
The hon. Member will have seen that, in recent international surveys, standards are rising in our schools. We increased school funding by £4 billion last year, and this year it has increased by £3.5 billion. Taken over those two years, that is a 15% increase in school funding. Those of us on the Government side of the House want to have a well rewarded, well motivated teaching profession, because that is how we will ensure that standards continue to rise in our schools.
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Assessment & feedback
The negative impact of budget cuts on school funding and providing equal opportunities for all children were not directly addressed with specific commitments or actions.
International Surveys Showing Rising Standards
Increase In School Funding Over Two Years
Response accuracy
Q2
Direct Answer
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Context
The MP asked about the adequacy of funding for schools, referencing a recent assessment.
What recent assessment she has made of the adequacy of funding for schools?
We are committed to providing world-class schools. Total funding for both mainstream schools and special schools and alternative provision will total £58.8 billion by 2024-25: the highest ever level per pupil in real terms. That assessment has been confirmed by the Institute for Fiscal Studies.
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Assessment & feedback
Response accuracy