James Wild raises concerns over impact National Insurance rise will have on West Norfolk schools

James Wild has raised concerns over the impact the Chancellor’s National Insurance increase will have on school budgets.

Drawing on conversations with head teachers during visits across his North West Norfolk constituency, Mr Wild stressed schools are already facing pressures from rising costs and “unfunded pay awards”.

With the National Insurance rise expected to cost schools around £100million annually, the MP expects schools to face difficult choices - including reducing staff, increasing class sizes, or cutting curriculum options.

He continues to press ministers to recognise these challenges and take action accordingly.

Speaking in Parliament, Mr Wild said: “Head teachers are warning that the gap in funding to cover the Chancellor’s jobs tax is equivalent to losing more existing teachers than the Government are planning to recruit.

“I have heard that message loud and clear from head teachers on my recent school visits, and unfunded pay awards will just make this worse.

“Why is the Education Secretary not standing up for our schools?”

In response, Minister for School Standards Catherine McKinnell MP stated: “This Labour Government has made tough decisions to fix the foundations of our economy and public services.

“The additional money from national insurance contributions allows us to protect key educational priorities.

“The Conservatives should be honest - what would they cut to fund our schools?”

With supporting educational outcomes a key focus of his plan for North West Norfolk, Mr Wild has now visited nearly 50 schools across the constituency.