📚 Big Changes Ahead for Newtown High School 📚
Newtown High School in Powys, with its 900 pupils, is facing more job cuts as it grapples with a looming financial crisis. Forecasts predict a deficit of £1.5m within three years, sparking concern among staff and the community.
Recent audits have painted a challenging picture. The school, which also operates the John Beddoes campus in Presteigne, recently let go of the equivalent of 5.2 full-time staff members and anticipates a £740,000 deficit by the end of this financial year. Initially, the deficit was estimated to climb to £2.1m by the end of 2027-28 but was adjusted to a somewhat more manageable £1.5m.
Headteacher Natalie Havard has been proactive, submitting a successful budget recovery plan while navigating a warning notice from the local authority. She’s held critical meetings with education and corporate services directors and initiated consultations to address the budget shortfall.
Further restructuring and changes in leadership are on the cards to tackle these financial challenges. Mrs Havard remains optimistic about potential boosts in funding for additional learning needs, which could offer some respite.
Talking specifically about the John Beddoes campus, she mentioned plans for amalgamating classes to balance savings while ensuring viable education in east Radnorshire.
Despite the tough situation, council education portfolio holder, Councillor James Gibson-Watt, praised the school’s strategy and described the headteacher’s plan as comprehensive and appropriate.
The road ahead requires a careful balancing act, but Newtown High is committed to doing everything possible for its pupils and community. Stay updated as this story unfolds!