Schools in Powys are set to miss out on their fair share of a £14 million fund for essential school repairs according to Montgomeryshire AM, Russell George.
The money is set to be administered by local authorities, but analysis of the Education Secretary’s allocations reveals that Powys schools will be underfunded by 36% for school repairs compared to schools in Swansea, despite being responsible for the maintenance of more schools.
The following figures emerged from answers to Written Assembly Questions from Shadow Education Secretary, Darren Millar.
- Powys: £645,490.75 (97 maintained schools)
- Swansea: £1,009,093.42 (95 maintained schools)
Commenting on the figures, Montgomershire AM, Russell George said:
“The additional money for school repairs is welcome, but I am concerned that schools in Mid Wales are being underfunded once again.
“We know that schools right across Wales are struggling to pay for essential repairs without compromising teaching standards, but these issues are just as likely to affect head teachers in Montgomeryshire, as they are heads in Swansea.
“Time and time again, the Welsh Government seems to prioritise its heartlands in the south and you would have hoped that Kirsty Williams, the Education Secretary, who represents Brecon & Radnorshire, would understand this.
“Sadly, communities in Mid Wales have been short-changed again.
“This money needs to be distributed fairly – and it is vital that it reaches the frontline without being swallowed up in council bureaucracy.”