Dear Parent Council Chair

Children and Families Budget

I am writing to let you know that Administration Councillors have signalled that they plan to reduce the proposed net savings in school budgets from the originally suggested 2.5% to 1% despite the unprecedented financial challenges that face the Council.

In reality, the overall schools budget will be increased by £5.2 million (2.6%) (compared to our grant which is only increasing by 0.9%) to address the additional £7.2 million budget pressures from teacher pay awards, new rules for teacher leave entitlement, increased property rates and class sizes. Administration Councillors have taken the decision to cover these costs from the wider Council budget to reduce the impact on front line school budgets. This is a clear message that schools are being treated as the highest priority. In addition, for the second year running the supplies and services budget for schools will be increased by £250,000.

I am sure you will agree these steps demonstrate a continuing commitment to children’s services and while the 1% reduction will have an impact on schools I am sure you will agree that in the current financial climate this is a very positive outcome for our schools.

Full details of the updated Children and Families budget position will be presented at the meeting of the full Council on Thursday 11 February and further, more detailed information will be provided following this meeting.

I recognise how difficult the last few months have been for everyone and I would like to take this opportunity to thank you for your support and for the way we have worked together constructively to address the challenges we face. . Yours sincerely

Councillor Marilyne MacLaren^? Convener of Education, Children and Families **********************************************************************