School staff at risk as trust needs to save £1m

Trust chief executive Owen Jenkins said, in a letter to parents, that "every possible avenue" had been explored to avoid cuts.

About 80 support staff posts across eight Norfolk schools are at risk as an academy trust tries to save £1m.

Broad Horizons Education Trust, which is based in Norwich and runs 18 schools across Norfolk, said the possible job losses were equivalent to 31 full-time roles.

In a letter sent to parents and carers, seen by the BBC, trust chief executive Owen Jenkins said leadership had explored "every possible avenue" to avoid cuts.

"Whilst we remain committed to our vision of ensuring every child is supported to achieve their potential, there is no option but to reduce operational costs, a substantial amount of which is staff costs," he said.

'No easy way'

The letter to parents continued: "This is not a decision we take lightly, as we fully understand the impact it has on our staff, your children and our school communities."

The trust said the move to reduce posts was a necessary step to ensure its "long-term financial health and sustainability".

"Despite these challenges, our commitment to providing the best education for your children remains steadfast," said Mr Jenkins.

The trust said it needed to find savings of about £1m in the next financial year.

It will now run a statutory consultation for 30 days with staff in eight of its schools.

"There is no easy way to achieve the required savings, and trustees recognise that this is a worrying time for staff, parents, and pupils," said Mr Jenkins.

"Out of respect for our staff and the process we are undertaking, while the consultation is ongoing I cannot comment on this or any individual aspects of our savings programme further."