Some headteachers are warning that reductions in teaching and extracurricular activities are being considered to stay afloat.
A new survey of 500 school leaders by Commercial Services Group reveals that 56% of secondary schools and multi-academy trusts (MATs) are now running long-term financial deficits.
Energy bills were cited as one of the top spending cuts by 21% of respondents, with further reductions being made to heating, lighting, and essential classroom resources.
To reduce costs, 22% of schools are switching off lights during the day and 17% are lowering classroom heating.
Others are considering combining class sizes or cutting arts, languages and music.
Despite this, only 19% of schools plan to seek external advice to reduce energy spend — a missed opportunity, according to energy experts.
“With wholesale prices still well above pre-2020 levels, it’s understandable that energy remains a concern for many schools,” said Eamon Grimes, Managing Director, Energy & Carbon at LASER. “We’ve seen a growing number of schools finding practical ways to reduce costs whether through flexible contracts, energy reduction measures, generating their own energy, or working together on procurement.”
Matt Johnson, CEO of Commercial Services Group, added: “We need a more joined-up effort between government, energy providers, and education partners to raise awareness of the support that exists and help schools make informed, strategic decisions.”
The survey also found that over half of schools say staff and pupil wellbeing is being affected by rising energy bills.
Some 24% are considering cutting teaching tools like computers and science equipment to save costs.
