News from Sheffield Labour

Sheffield Head Teachers slam Sixth Form funding cuts

Paul Blomfield MP has challenged the Education Secretary in Parliament about cuts to Sixth Form funding in Sheffield. Mr Blomfield raised the issue with Michael Gove at Education Questions and has now written to him asking him why local sixth forms are facing cuts. In a recent joint letter to parents and carers, the Head teachers of seven local sixth forms outlined how their budgets are being reduced by 20% over the next 3 years. The Head Teachers state that this is forcing them to consider cutting the range of courses they offer, increasing class sizes, and reducing guidance and enrichment sessions.

Paul Blomfield MP said: “Sheffield Head Teachers have taken the unprecedented step of jointly writing to parents and carers of Year 11 and 12 students because they’re so concerned about the impact of cuts to 6th form funding. They have made it clear that they have never been subject to cuts of this magnitude, and yet the Government claim to be protecting school spending. I’m raising this issue with Michael Gove to see if he understands the impact of his decisions.”

Other news from Sheffield Labour

• Angela Smith MP creates buzz about bee decline - 31 January 2013
• Commons votes for Polling Stations to remain open after 10pm - 29 January 2013
• Paul Blomfield MP challenges the Chancellor on his unfair cuts - 29 January 2013