Energy support for schools

As reported by the National Education Union, the Government’s announcement that they will freeze energy prices for schools for six months will do nothing to mitigate the increases that have already happened

Commenting on the Prime Minister’s announcement of six months’ support for schools and colleges, in order to tackle rising energy bills, Kevin Courtney, joint general secretary of the National Education Union, said:   

“The Government’s announcement that they will freeze energy prices for schools and colleges for six months will do nothing to mitigate the increases that have already happened. Many schools have already seen their energy bills triple or more. The proposal only provides six-month protection at an unmanageably high level and does not provide security for the future.   

“School funding remains lower in real terms than it was in 2010. The sharp increase in school costs means that the last Prime Minister’s promise to restore school funding will not be met unless funding is increased. Schools will continue to be forced to increase class sizes, cut subject choice, and reduce additional support unless more money is committed.

“The Government must step up to protect children’s education now. Schools are striving to recover from the pandemic and the rise in the cost of energy and the chronic lack of funding will derail that work.”