The headteacher of Barrow’s only all-through school has called for continued investment in education to help meet the future needs of the town.
Chetwynde head Steve Jefferson was speaking in response to the Government’s Spending Review, which pledged new funding to the sector.
Mr Jefferson, who is also deputy chief executive officer of the South Cumbria Multi-Academy Trust, spoke positively about the funding uplift announced by the Chancellor Rachel Reeves.
He welcomed the pledge to invest more in special educational needs funding but urged the Government to ensure it reaches the frontline.
He said: “What we need now is continued investment, collaboration and belief in our young people. They are the future of this town.
“In schools across this area we’re seeing more children with education, health and care plans than ever before. Mental health services also need proper funding to meet demand and support pupils across the Furness area holistically.”
Mr Jefferson said there were benefits of strengthening early years provision through additional funding as it enabled smooth transitions from nursery to GCSEs.
“If we get things right at nursery age, everything else becomes more effective. I’d love to see more focus and funding in early years – that’s where it all starts,” he said.
“My hope is that our children grow up knowing they have choices – whether that’s a degree, an apprenticeship, or a job in one of our brilliant local industries.
“Our current GCSE group at Chetwynde are really upbeat after exams and full of potential. Some will leave, some will stay, but many will come back to share their skills and give something back to Barrow.”
He challenged policymakers to ensure school buildings were futureproofed with more funding for estates.
He added: “We’ve got great schools, passionate teachers, and incredibly talented young people. This town has always been about resilience and community and excellent education plays a huge role in shaping where we go next.
“For communities like ours, the priority has to be investing in the fabric of education – our buildings, our staff, and the support we offer every child.
“Some of our area’s schools are beautiful, historic buildings but they need real upkeep at a time when budgets are tight.”
Our sister site Business Crack spoke to leading Cumbrian figures about how the Spending Review would impact the county.
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