HEAD teachers say they have been vindicated after the Government proposed to boost pupil funding but say the celebrations are on hold until the cash is “in our bank accounts”.

Earlier this month, Boris Johnson announced a reform package that would see £14 billion invested in primary and secondary schools between now and 2022/23.

The Prime Minister’s plans allow for an increase in the minimum funding schools receive per pupil.

It is expected to increase in line with inflation for all schools.

There will be a further cash boost to any schools which fall below what will become the minimum amount – £4,000 per primary pupil and £5,000 for secondary children.

Analysis of figures, provided to the House of Commons library, found 17 schools across the town are in line to receive the bigger cash injection under the plans.

The remainder, many of which have been heavily impacted by cuts to funding since 2011, are considered to already be receiving what will become the minimum amount.

Colchester Royal Grammar School could have the least to gain from the proposals with its increase at around £15 per pupil.

The data showed Hamilton Primary School will get the highest increase of the town’s primary schools with £508 per pupil.

The figures are only estimates – as currently local authorities decide how central government money is shared out between schools.

Alan Garnett, head teacher of North Primary School in Colchester, said: “I will welcome any signal schools are going to get an increase in funding over the next three years.

“At the moment we have got no money and until it is absolutely nailed on and in our bank accounts I am not going to get over excited.

“For the past three or four years the schools, unions and parents have been shouting and marching saying schools need more funds.

“For the majority of that time the Government and various politicians have been in a state of denial.”

Mr Garnett said the funding news showed they had been “telling the truth all along”.

Colchester County High School for Girls executive principal, Gillian Marshall said: "I share in the concerns voiced by all Essex Headteachers, about the difficult financial position in which all schools have been placed over recent years. 

"In addition, the latest funding allocations place CCHSG as one of the 12 schools in Essex which receive the lowest per capita funding. 

"We work continually to develop strategies to minimise the impact on curriculum delivery and student experience. 

"I continue, alongside other local education leaders, to make representations about the very real impact of funding reductions. 

"We are also actively looking for opportunities, such as the letting of site facilities, to generate additional income. We are very grateful for the continued support and understanding of our parents, and the fundraising efforts of our PTFA." 

The Gazette backed the fight for a commitment of at least 15 per cent more funding per school from the Government.

That is the equivalent of £218,00 per school, with some needing as much as £500,000.

n To sign the online petition to lobby the Government, go to bit.ly/2Y4XUoR. So far, more than 2,500 people have signed up.