Headteachers in West Sussex say they are at “financial breaking point” because the funding they receive is “no longer sustainable” to meet the high costs of operating in south-east England.

In 2026/27 West Sussex schools have the fifth lowest secondary unit of funding in England of just over £7,100 compared to an England average of over £7,600.

While primary schools have the seventh lowest unit of funding of over £5,500 compared to an England average of nearly £6000.

Matthew Whatford, the head teacher at Imberhorne School, in East Grinstead, said rising utilities and staffing costs have put “an extraordinary strain on what is already an incredibly challenging budget position”.

Headteachers across the county have written to the  government and their MPs asking to meet with their local school leaders to discuss reviewing the area cost adjustment for West Sussex.