School Principals Warn Of Funding Crisis

Primary school principals in L'Derry have sent a joint letter to parents warning of the "profoundly negative impact" of budget cuts on their schools and urging politicians to return to government.

The letter warns of a "crisis in education" and was sent home with pupils from Catholic, controlled, integrated and Irish medium schools across the city on Tuesday, 09 October.

Possible consequences of the cuts include reduced staff numbers, longer waiting lists for special educational needs services and increased class sizes.

"As educationalists we have always been proud of the high standards that we have been able to deliver in all of our schools in Derry throughout the year.

"However, all of this is being compromised and threatened by the lack of financial and political support that we are being given to run our schools."

The head teachers who collaborated on the letter said the amount of funding received per pupil had been cut by 4% over the past four years, with consequences for education "an inevitable outcome".

Swimming lessons, music tuition and school trips could become unaffordable, while after-school clubs may become more expensive.

The letter also urges parents to lobby their politicians and highlight that other areas of the UK have significantly better funding for education.

(JG)