Head’s fears over school funding

funding to schools,” she said in an open letter to parents, available on the school website.

“There has been no actual cut to school funding so far; but there has been no increase to funding to cover the increased costs to schools.

“Over the last three years all schools have faced cost increases associated with salaries, national insurance and pensions contributions, curriculum resources and services purchased to support the everyday running of a school.

“None of these cost increases have been funded by government. This translates into realterm cuts to school budgets of up to 10%.

“The significant contraction of services provided by Kirklees, for example Youth and Social Services, is leaving schools to pick up an ever-increasing responsibility for the health and wellbeing of students and their families with no additional funding.”

Mrs Wood’s letter continued: “It is without doubt that there is an education funding crisis.

“However, strong leadership and governance within our Holmfirth family of schools, together with the support of our community, will ensure that we maintain standards and opportunities for all our students.

“Our local MP, Jason McCartney, has commented to school leaders that he is proud to be part of a listening government.

“We hope the government does listen to educational professionals and ensure all schools receive a much-needed real increase in their funding next year and not the cuts proposed,” added Mrs Wood.