Extra funds will benefit our schools

IN my role as your local MP, supporting schools and families has been an integral part of my positive plan for South Gloucestershire.

It is one of the key public services that defines our future.

I was delighted to see that the government has announced an extra £2.3 billion will be invested in schools across the country. As part of the commitment to increase funding, schools in Thornbury, Yate and the surrounding villages will see a large increase in funding from next year.

This is great news for our community in South Gloucestershire, where funding for schools will increase by over £13 million next year, representing a cash increase of

6.9%, above the average increase for schools in England.

South Gloucestershire has historically been one of the lowest-funded local authorities for education, which is something I campaigned to change for some time.

These announcements mean we are now seeing the increases we need.

Many of our local schools will benefit, with secondary schools set to receive at least £5,715 a year per pupil, and at least £4,405 for each primary school child.

On top of this funding boost, £500m has been made available to schools and colleges to support energy efficiency upgrades, and to save on bills and manage energy consumption.

The government is also giving further funding for young people in post-16 education: £125 million is being made available for schools, colleges and other education providers to 16 to 19 year olds next year, for investing in resources and skills qualifications that will offer more learning for students and access to high-quality qualifications, including T-Levels, A-Levels and technical qualifications.

This will make sure our young people can explore a wide variety of technical and vocational routes, giving them the qualifications needed to build successful careers.

I will continue to press for more support for our local town and village schools, to ensure we are not left behind.

Our positive plan for schools and education will see us continue to invest in our local schools, to ensure our children get the best possible standard of education.

Improving school standards in South Gloucestershire is an absolute priority, so pupils living in our community have the best learning environments possible, and the opportunities they deserve to fulfil their potential in life.