Welsh Lib Dems raise concerns over escalating school deficit dilemma

THIS week in the Senedd, the Welsh Liberal Democrats have raised concerns over the escalating school deficit dilemma.

As of November, last year, 26 schools in Powys were running at a deficit. Whilst across Wales the total financial deficit totalled to £3.423 million.

Commenting, the leader of the Welsh Liberal Democrats Jane Dodds MS said:

“The situation facing our schools across Wales is bleak, with many facing the financial repercussions of the Cost-of-Living crisis.

The Welsh Labour Government and their Plaid Cymru partners have routinely failed to provide for our schools, our teachers, and our young people.

Back in November, the Petitions committee heard testimony from representatives of the Chairs of Governors Association about their petition requesting a review of funding for schools in Wales.

What they told the committee was worrying, they emphasised that a significant number of schools are operating with barely any funds.

Put simply, a considerable number of our schools here in Wales are on the brink of bankruptcy.

Evidence provided by one primary school headteacher showed how he had £700 left in his teaching materials budget for the rest of this fiscal year, a fair few short of the £3,000 needed to cover costs.

But by expanding eligibility for the Pupil Development Grant, we can address this funding crisis by ensuring that more direct funding is being given to schools.

We cannot afford to sit idly by and watch as our schools vanish before us, we must act now to ensure that schools, their staff, and their students are being properly supported.”