Funding review aims to improve quality of education

Final report by UK consultancy firm due in June

It's hoped a review into the funding of education on the Island will improve the quality of the service within its current budget, or at a lower cost.

Government commissioned the review into how money is spent within the Island's schools.

Chief Minister Alfred Cannan has confirmed Warwickshire-based Premier Advisory Group has been appointed to conduct the review into the funding and delivery of education.

According to its website, the education consultancy firm has worked with a number of UK councils and academy trusts.

In response to a Tynwald written question from Douglas East MHK Joney Faragher, Mr Cannan says budgetary restrictions, inflation and pay awards are behind the need to find cost savings across government.

However, there are concerns this is threatening to reduce the quality of services.

Mr Cannan says the aim of the review is to consider the current value for money of funding provided to schools, the level of provision in all areas, and future policy options that could improve the quality of the service, or allow a lower cost of delivery.

Initially, it had been hoped the report would be completed by October, but the consultants have now been asked to submit their final findings to the Council of Ministers by June next year.

It's intended the report will include recommendations on the quality and sustainability of the current funding model, support for those with additional needs and the level of funding needed to meet government's future objectives for education.