A 'funding crisis' in schools here, say NI Education leaders
They've written to the Secretary of State and Head of the Civil Service
Last updated 20th Jan 2023
Northern Ireland's Education leaders have voiced "significant concerns" over what they're calling a "crisis in funding".
They've written letters to the Secretary of State, and Head of the Civil Service, Jayne Brady.
They've said a failure to address the problem - will have a negative impact for generations to come.
That's the warning from Chief Executives of various education organisations - including the Governing Bodies Association, and the Council for Integrated Education
In the letter, they hit out at what they call "stark systematic underfunding" in Northern Ireland's education system and question an apparent lack of parity - when compared to funding in the rest of the UK.
They said Institute for Fiscal Studies analysis evidences that since 2009-10, spending per pupil has been consistently highest in Scotland and generally lowest in NI.
In 2021-22, spending per pupil is estimated to be £7,600 per pupil in Scotland but only £6,400 in NI, around £6,700 in England and £6,600 in Wales.
They've also said it'll be impossible to continue to give children here an education that ensures they have the best start in life.
They also warn that funding challenges are compounding difficulties in picking up on learning, in the wake of the pandemic.
The leaders are calling for an urgent meeting - with the aim of upping funding levels.