£5m education fund announced in Barrow to boost school attainment
Local school leaders to help decide how the money will be spent.
A £5 million investment aimed at boosting educational outcomes in Barrow will see local school leaders play a key role in deciding how the funds are spent.
The Brilliant Futures Fund was unveiled by Prime Minister Keir Starmer during his visit to the town in March and forms part of Team Barrow’s efforts to improve learning and attainment for young people.
Figures show that children in the area are currently underperforming compared to national averages across all key stages, with absence rates also posing challenges.
Who is involved in the project?
Professor Janet Lord, deputy Pro Vice-Chancellor for the Faculty of Health and Education at Manchester Metropolitan University, will lead the work alongside school leaders. She is a nationally established expert in education.
Professor Lord said: "I’m really thrilled to be able to work with colleagues across Barrow and more widely to improve the educational experiences and outcomes for young people.
"Nothing matters more than putting a sound foundation in place for children, a foundation that will allow them to go on and achieve great things and to be able to contribute to society."
In addition to improving educational attainment, Team Barrow has two core objectives: the delivery of submarines and the diversification of the local economy.
Professor Julie Mennell, Vice-Chancellor of the University of Cumbria, which has recently opened a new campus in Barrow, is sponsoring the education and skills part of the programme.
Professor Mennell said: "Giving our young people the best possible start in life is vital, but the statistics tell us that children in Barrow are currently at a disadvantage.
"This money will help address that, and I’m delighted that we’ve got such a great person, in Janet Lord, to lead the work. Working with our school leaders, teachers and other partners we can deliver improved outcomes and long-term impact."
Councillor Janet Battye, Cabinet member for Children’s Services, Education, and Skills at Westmorland and Furness Council, added: "I am delighted to have local school leaders front and centre in deciding how this money can have the biggest impact.
"Increasing educational attainment is vital. For Barrow to thrive, our young people need to be able to realise their potential."