School Budget Cut Plans Dropped

The following letter was sent to all School Council Chairs yesterday by the Convenor of the Education Committee. Having listened to the case made by head teachers and School Councils, the City of Edinburgh Council has now decided that there will be no 2% cut to this year's school budget. Thanks to all parents and carers who wrote to our councillors.

Dear Parent Council Chair

Children and Families Budget 2009-10

I am writing to inform you that the Administration are protecting school budgets in the forthcoming budget in February. It was always my intention to endeavour to safeguard schools, but realised this was dependant on re-prioritisation within the total Council revenue budget. Although this has been a long and difficult process, I am delighted that we have found ways to protect schools. During the process we have listened carefully to Head Teachers and parents whose forthright views have helped to inform the debate.

I recognise that many of you have been understandably anxious about the impact of a 2% cut to school budgets and thought it was important that I let you know about this decision at the earliest possible opportunity.

I am sure today’s announcement will be welcomed by all staff and parents across the city. This decision underlines this Administration’s commitment to education and other frontline services which the public rightly view as priorities for the Council. It has been very challenging to reach this decision in the current financial climate but I believe it is entirely worth it for the benefit of Edinburgh’s children.

Yours sincerely


Councillor Marilyne MacLaren
Convener of Education, Children and Families