The ongoing debate over education funding has seen a significant development as Deputy Dudley-Owen, President of the Committee for Education, Sport and Culture, has indicated a willingness to compromise. This news has been welcomed by Blanchelande College, Elizabeth College, and the Ladies' College, which are key components of the local education "ecosystem." The Colleges have expressed their desire for funding to continue on a rolling basis amid proposals to reallocate grants to States-maintained schools.
The Committee's proposal to divert funding to state schools has been met with concern from the Colleges, who have been collaborating with the Committee's working group for the past two years in an attempt to reach an agreement. The grants in question amounted to £723,000 during the 2019/20 academic year and were projected to rise to approximately £2.85 million by the 2025/26 academic year.
Deputy Gavin St Pier has emphasized the integral role of these Colleges in the education system and supports the continuation of funding on a rolling basis. In contrast, Deputy Peter Roffey has proposed a gradual reduction of 4% annually in funding between 2026 and 2033. He suggests that half of the savings be reinvested into state schools while the remainder is used to lower public service costs.
Further adding to the debate, Deputy John Dyke has suggested introducing 30 means-tested "part-funded places" by September 2027. This proposal aims to balance educational opportunities across different socio-economic groups while addressing funding concerns.
