An issue I am continuing to pursue with the Department for Education is the pressing matter of funding for West Sussex schools.

The county’s MPs are united in the belief that the current system is not fair on our pupils, parents and teachers.

We lobbied hard for a fairer formula, and very much welcome the Government’s commitment to introduce a National Funding Formula to ensure fair funding in the future. 

The formula is to be introduced in 2018, high time, as the current system, that sees areas like London funded by hundreds of pounds more per pupil, was established a decade ago.

Meanwhile, until a new 2018 system, the issue of transitional funding is one I continue to pursue. 

The county’s MPs are on the side of West Sussex pupils, parents and teachers, but in turn I ask that all concerned fully contribute to the consultation and make the case for a fairer formula.

In recent weeks, West Sussex MPs issued a joint public statement outlining how we are continuing to act on this issue. 

I will be joining other county MPs in meetings over the coming weeks with both the Education Secretary, as well as with the Minister of State for School Standards.

Last week, with other county MPs, I met with the leadership of West Sussex County Council, this matter was high on the list of priorities we discussed. 

The Government rightly want education to provide greater opportunity – West Sussex children are worth that investment.