National Education Union warns government as schools depend on parent fundraising and struggle to survive financial pressures across England

Schools across the country are still leaning on parents to help cover basic costs, despite promises from Labour to reverse years of Conservative-led funding reductions.

The National Education Union (NEU) says the situation shows little real improvement, arguing that schools are being forced into what amounts to community fundraising just to stay afloat.

A large survey of around 11,000 NEU members revealed that 66% of schools depend on donations and fundraising to keep running, while 53% say their budgets simply cannot stretch far enough to hire the staff they need.

Union Accuses Government of Falling Short on Promises

The NEU has not held back in its criticism of the government, accusing ministers of failing both pupils and educators.

General Secretary Daniel Kebede said schools are being pushed into a position where they must rely on “collection tin” appeals to meet basic needs.

He argued that pupils in less affluent communities are disproportionately affected, as they cannot rely on local families to bridge funding gaps.

According to survey responses, donations are being used to cover essentials such as repairs, equipment, and school trips—costs that should normally be met through public funding.

Growing Concerns Over Facilities and Learning Conditions

The survey also highlighted serious concerns about school infrastructure.

Around 33% of respondents said their schools overheat during summer, while 54% reported poor ventilation.

A further 66% said buildings leak when it rains.

One teacher described the impact bluntly, pointing out that a lack of funding directly affects vulnerable children by limiting support, resources, and enriching learning experiences.

Tensions Rise as Strike Action Looms

Although Labour once enjoyed strong support from education unions during its opposition years, relations have become strained.

The NEU is now considering industrial action over pay and working conditions, with an indicative ballot currently underway targeting Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson.

The shift marks a significant change in tone, as the union now publicly challenges the government it once aligned with politically.

Financial Pressures Continue Despite Increased Investment

A spokesperson for the Department for Education (DfE) defended the government’s approach, stating that it inherited a difficult financial situation but is committing record investment to schools.

Funding is set to increase by £1.7 billion in 2026–27, including support for special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) reforms.

However, the Institute for Fiscal Studies (IFS) has warned that schools still face “a particularly tight set of pressures,” with rising costs expected to force difficult savings despite increased funding.

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Teachers Under Pressure as Workloads and Stress Mount

Separate research has revealed growing concerns about teacher wellbeing.

A survey of 1,000 secondary school teachers found that 74% have considered leaving the profession due to burnout.

Stress levels are significantly affecting classroom performance, with 70% of teachers saying it impacts their teaching and 34% describing the effect as severe.

Many also reported emotional strain, with 63% feeling guilty that stress has affected their work, and 45% even describing themselves as “bad teachers” during periods of burnout.

Burnout Affecting Attendance and Student Outcomes

The impact of stress is not limited to feelings alone—it is also affecting attendance and performance.

About 31% of teachers said they have worked while feeling mentally unwell, while 16% have taken time off due to stress.

Of those who took leave, 24% were absent for between 11 and 20 days.

Many educators also believe burnout is hurting students, with 64% saying it negatively impacts learning outcomes.

Education Unions Warn of an Unsustainable System

Matt Wrack, General Secretary of NASUWT, said teachers are struggling under heavy workloads and increasing responsibilities, particularly in pastoral care.

He warned that many educators feel trapped in a cycle of exhaustion, guilt, and overwork, making it harder to deliver quality teaching.

Government Response Focuses on Recruitment and Retention

The DfE pointed to progress in teacher retention, noting one of the lowest leaving rates since 2010.

Officials also highlighted plans to recruit and retain 6,500 additional teachers, alongside wellbeing initiatives such as the Education Staff Wellbeing Charter.

More than 4,300 schools have already signed up to the charter, which aims to improve staff wellbeing across the sector.

Additional funding is also being allocated to support leadership wellbeing programs.

Impact and Consequences

The ongoing reliance on parental donations is widening inequality between schools in wealthier and poorer areas.

Pupils in underfunded communities are at a disadvantage, missing out on resources, support, and enrichment opportunities.

Teacher burnout is also creating a staffing crisis, with more educators considering leaving the profession.

This could worsen existing shortages, increase class sizes, and place even more pressure on those remaining in the system.

At the same time, deteriorating school conditions—such as poor ventilation and leaking buildings—pose both health and learning challenges for students and staff.

What’s next?

With a union ballot underway, the possibility of strike action remains on the table, which could disrupt learning across schools.

Negotiations between unions and the government are likely to intensify in the coming months.

The government will also need to demonstrate whether increased funding can translate into real improvements in classrooms, particularly as cost pressures continue to rise.

Policymakers may face mounting pressure to address teacher workload, improve pay structures, and ensure funding reaches the frontline without forcing schools to rely on community donations.

Summary

Schools are still relying on parent donations to meet basic needs, according to a major union survey, despite government promises to boost funding.

Teachers are under increasing pressure, with high levels of burnout and concerns about declining working conditions.

While the government points to increased investment and recruitment efforts, unions argue that more fundamental changes are needed to stabilize the education system.

Bulleted Takeaways

• 66% of schools rely on donations and fundraising to cover basic costs
• 53% say they lack funds to hire enough staff
• NEU accuses government of failing to support schools adequately
• Poor infrastructure remains widespread, including leaks and ventilation issues
• Teachers report high burnout, with 74% considering leaving the profession
• 70% say stress negatively affects teaching quality
• Education unions warn of unsustainable workloads and growing pressure
• Government highlights £1.7 billion funding increase and recruitment plans
• Potential strike action could disrupt schools if disputes continue