Job Reductions Loom for 80 School Support Staff as Trust Seeks £1m Savings

Approximately 80 support staff positions across eight Norfolk schools are in jeopardy as an academy trust endeavors to save £1m. Broad Horizons Education Trust, headquartered in Norwich and responsible for 18 schools throughout Norfolk, stated that these potential job losses are equivalent to 31 full-time roles. In a letter dispatched to parents and carers, which the BBC has reviewed, trust chief executive Owen Jenkins indicated that leadership had explored “every possible avenue” to avert cuts. He commented, “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.” The letter to parents further stated: “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 explained that the decision to reduce posts was a necessary measure to ensure its “long-term financial health and sustainability.” “Despite these challenges, our commitment to providing the best education for your children remains steadfast,” Mr Jenkins affirmed. The trust specified that it needs to identify savings of approximately £1m in the forthcoming financial year. It will now conduct 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,” Mr Jenkins said. He added, “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.”