CHELMSFORD schools could have their funding slashed, a new study has revealed.

Research by the National Union of Teachers and other unions has compared each school’s funding in 2015/16 with the funding the Government predicts it will receive in 2019-20 under its proposed new National Funding Formula, adjusted for the impact of inflation and cost increases imposed on schools. 

Chelmsford County High School for Girls, in Broomfield Road, has been named as one of the schools in Essex that would be affected most.

If the Government agrees these funding cuts, the school would lose £460,142 a year, which works out as £730 per pupil. There would also be a loss of 12 teachers.

Moulsham High School, in Brian Close, would also be badly affected and could see a loss of £596,616 or £479 per pupil, along with 15 teachers leaving the school.

Other schools that could see a large loss under these plans include The Sandon School, in Molrams Lane, Sandon.

If agreed these plans would see the school lose £596,417 from the school’s funding, which works out as £555 per pupil. There may also be a loss of 15 teachers from the school.

Roy Whitehead, leader of Chelmsford City Council, said he thinks the cuts seems short-sighted.

He added: “Education is so important and Chelmsford has very good schools.

“The thought of funding cuts for schools when its expected school numbers may increase with all the new housing developments doesn’t seem sensible.

“The standard of education is likely to be affected if this is passed because there will be larger classes.

“I do not see why any Government would change the teacher-to-students ratio when we have worked to get it down.

“Education is a priority for all of us, including Chelmsford City Council and Essex County Council.”

Mr Whitehead added that he does not think many people will like these plans.

Jerry Glazier, Essex NUT General Secretary said: ‘Under this Government’s funding policies, there are no winners, only losers. 
“Essex schools are being forced to make difficult and damaging decisions that no head teacher should have to make.”

“These include reducing school staff and teachers, increasing class sizes, and reducing the range of subjects offered simply to balance the books. 

“This is an unacceptable state of affairs The NUT and ATL will continue campaigning for additional funding, to protect schools and our children’s education.”