A note from Mr Schumm:

As you will be fully aware from the media, Government funding for schools has only increased by 2.2%, while the Consumer Price Index (CPI) has increased by 3.7%.

The school is responsible for funding the Teacher and Support Staff pay increases agreed by the new government last summer in addition to the increase in National Insurance contributions and increases in the cost of utilities.

For many years we have been blessed by the prudent financial management of Governors, the hard work of our staff and of course the amazing FOSS. To date we have been able to meet the increased costs by tightening our belts and without making significant cuts in what the school is able to provide. Many schools have not been so fortunate, and we are now one of the only state primary schools in the area with a Teaching Assistant in every class room.

As you may have experienced in your own households, these pressures are significant. This financial year (24/25) has been the first year in which the school has run a deficit. We are in the middle of setting our budgets for next year, which show this deficit is forecast to increase significantly next year, which will mean we are forced to make changes. We can no longer deal with the financial pressure just by tightening our belts and being prudent.

On a positive note, all primary aged children now receive Free School Meals, which is a fantastic benefit.

However, to continue providing the additional resources, activities and opportunities that make our school special, we are asking for your support.

If you are in a position to do so, we kindly ask you to consider making a voluntary contribution with gift aid to the School Fund, equivalent to the cost of your child’s school meals - £475 per year per child. Every contribution, no matter the amount, will help us maintain the St Stephen’s experience that enriches the children’s school experience.

We fully appreciate that this may not be possible for every family, but if you are able to help, it would make a real difference. Thank you for your continued support in helping us provide the best possible environment for our children.