A TEACHING union has raised concerns over Newport Council funding a private company of educational advisers it says has little impact on the achievement of pupils.

NASUWT said the local authority provides the lowest education funding per pupil in Wales yet continues to fund the South East Wales Education Achievement Service (EAS).

General secretary Dr Patrick Roach said: “Our message to Newport Council is clear: prioritise schools when it comes to education funding.

“There is a crisis in learner behaviour in Wales and the money is needed in schools to reduce class sizes and increase support.”
 
NASUWT national official for Wales Neil Butler said Newport’s delegated school expenditure per pupil is £6,120 — £913 less than the highest-funding local authorities.

He said: “Just think what could be done with that extra funding.

“But the situation is worse in Newport because, not satisfied with being the lowest funder, the council has decided to continue funding the EAS.”

The council was contacted for comment.