- British schools face a potential £288 million funding shortfall by 2027 due to declining primary pupil numbers, the National Audit Office (NAO) has warned.
- The NAO criticised the Department for Education (DfE) for failing to adequately support schools in adapting to these demographic shifts, jeopardising financial stability and teaching quality.
- Some primary schools are already being forced to merge or close their doors entirely due to dwindling pupil numbers, a trend ongoing since 2018/19.
- Further significant funding cuts are anticipated, with an additional £410 million reduction in 2028 and £334 million in 2029, potentially disproportionately impacting disadvantaged pupils.
- The NAO and the Public Accounts Committee are urging the DfE to develop a clear strategy to manage the impact of falling pupil numbers and ensure children's education is not compromised.
IN FULL
