In response to the Autumn 2023 budget announcement (22 November 2023) and the absence of any additional funding for schools, Emma Knights, NGA’s co-chief executive, addresses the considerable funding challenges confronting governing boards within schools and trusts.
“Again, we find ourselves expressing profound disappointment that the Chancellor has not made additional investments in England's schools today. The Prime Minister has promised us all a world-class education service that needs to be funded properly alongside the full range of family services our communities need.
Our manifesto highlights the need for an urgent review of funding mechanisms to guarantee that schools not only receive adequate funding for maintaining high-quality education but also have the capacity to cater to the additional needs of vulnerable groups and the mounting strains for schools, trusts, staff and boards.
The fact that there was no additional support for schools and trusts announced in the budget is desperately disappointing. Regrettably, after another budget, a significant number of our members feel accountable for addressing issues they presently lack the financial means to resolve.”