What does the 2024 Budget mean for education?

This article provides an overview of what the education sector can expect to see in the future of education, following the latest budget.

1.      Increased Funding for Schools in Deprived Areas

One of the key promises of Labours education strategy is to invest heavily in schools serving deprived areas. The party has committed to directing additional funding towards schools in underprivileged regions, like the North of England and the Midlands, with the aim being to reduce the performance gap. This move is part of Labours broader goal of levelling up opportunities across the country and aims to reduce the educational attainment gap between wealthier and poorer areas.

The budget will include targeted investment in school facilities, technology, and staffing, especially in schools with high numbers of pupils from disadvantaged backgrounds. The funding will not just be about infrastructure; it would also support extra-curricular activities, specialised tutors, and tailored interventions to ensure that every child, regardless of their background, has access to high-quality education.

2.      Strengthening Vocational Education and Apprenticeships

Labour has also placed a strong emphasis on vocational education, aiming to bridge the skills gaps in sectors vital to the UK’s economy, such as green energy, healthcare and technology. Their budget will see a significant increase in funding for vocational training and apprentices.

In addition to expanding apprenticeship programs, the Labour budget proposes developing closer partnerships between schools, colleges and businesses. This collaboration would create clear pathways from education into the workforce. With youth unemployment still a concern, these initiatives would provide more carer opportunities for young people while helping the economy thrive.

3.      Prioritising mental health and wellbeing

Students’ mental health remains a top priority, particularly following the pandemic. Labours budget plans to invest heavily in mental health support in schools which will include providing funding for more school counsellors, mental health professionals and wellbeing programs. But Labours proposals go beyond  merely increasing access to mental health services, the budget would also fund training programs for teachers to recognise and respond to mental health issues in the classroom.

Furthermore, the Labour party plans to integrate mental health education into the school curriculum, helping students develop resilience, emotional intelligence, and coping strategies

4.      Greater Emphasis on Educational Inequality and Inclusion

Labour has made it clear that educational inequality is one of its top priorities. The proposed budget would include increased funding for students with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) and a focus on expanding inclusion programs for marginalised groups. This includes better support for students who face barriers to learning due to economic disadvantage, disability or other factors.

The budget would also provide funding for strong anti-bullying initiatives and diversity and inclusion training for teachers, ensuring that schools are safe, inclusive spaces for all students. By focusing on creating a more inclusive education system, Labour hopes to ensure that no child is left behind. 

5.      Reforming Teacher Recruitment and Retention

A key challenge facing UK education is the teacher shortage, exacerbated by high levels of burnout. Labour’s budget includes measures aimed at addressing these issues, including a focus of improving pay and working conditions for teachers. The party proposes raising teacher salaries and reducing workload pressures, which are often cited as major reasons for leaving the profession.

Additionally, labour plans to invest in teacher training and professional development, ensuring that educators have the support and resources needed to succeed in their roles. By focusing on recruitment and retention, Labour hopes to ensure that schools can provide high-quality education without the constant pressure of filling teaching vacancies.

Labours priorities post-election, reflect both the economic needs and show a renewed focus on student development.