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Since 1997, school funding has
Since 1997, school funding has risen by £1,000 per pupil. Education
spending that was 4.7 per cent of national income in 1997 will rise to
5.5 per cent this year.We will continue to raise the share of national
income devoted to education. And we will continue to recognise the
additional needs of disadvantaged pupils.We will also ensure fundamental
reform in the way the money is spent. Funding will be allocated
on a multi-year timescale.There will be a dedicated national schools
budget set by central government, with a guaranteed per pupil increase
for every school. Heads and governors will be in control. Successful
schools and colleges will have the independence to take decisions
about how to deploy resources and develop their provision. Schools
will work together to raise standards. New provision will be created
where standards are too low or innovation is needed. Local authorities
have a vital role in championing the parent interest and providing support
services.