Welwyn Hatfield MP Grant Shapps; ‘Revenue budgets may be tight, but school buildings have been improved’

Welwyn Hatfield MP Grant Shapps has backed headteachers who want more cash to run their schools, but highlighted their major recent government-funded structural improvements.

After both Theodora Nickson of Bishop’s Hatfield and Jed Whelan of Sir Frederic Osborn had spoken of their fears of funding cuts over the next few years, Mr Shapps said both had been doing “a terrific job”.

He said: “Theo Nickson has consistently ensured that Bishop’s Hatfield is amongst the most sought after schools in Hertfordshire. Meanwhile, on a recent visit to Sir Frederic Osborn School, I was very impressed by the specialist sports college status which has only been possible because of the newly constructed sports facilities.

“Obviously proper funding is critically important, and this extends to both the day-to-day funding formula, as well as building the best facilities for our local schools.

“As it so happens, both these schools have benefitted from millions of pounds of public expenditure in very recent times.

“In my view, funding for pupils as well as buildings is crucial, and I broadly support our headteachers in their campaign for one to follow the other.”