Schools’ cash battle

SCHOOLS face a financial crisis as Covid rips through staff rooms.

Heads warn they will be unable to afford essential repairs and supplies, and may have to cut staff as money goes on supply teachers.

New Department of Education stats show nearly one in 10 teachers in England were absent last week.

James Bowen, of heads’ union the NAHT, said: “The Government has reintroduced the fund to help cover the cost of supply staff, but it contains so many complex conditions and caveats that many schools found it to be inaccessible.

“School budgets are incredibly tight at the best of times. Costs like this can tip budgets over the edge.”

Maria Kemble, executive head of two primary schools in Suffolk, has spent her annual supply budget in less than two terms. She said: “It is having a huge impact.”

The Department for Education said: “We recognise cost pressures, which is why have we extended the Covid workforce fund. Funding will increase by £4billion compared to 2021-22, a 5% per pupil boost.”