Concern over trust plans to cut schools staff

Plans by a multi-academy trust to cut teaching and support staff at two of its schools have been described as "deeply concerning" by an education union.

Synergy told parents it was facing "a number of financial challenges" and would need to review staff numbers at Reepham High School and College (RHSC) and Litcham School, near King's Lynn, both in Norfolk.

The BBC understands this would equate to the loss of 16 teachers, one senior leadership team member and eight non-teaching staff at Reepham, with five projected job losses at Litcham.

"These changes will have a significant impact on the quality of education, support for students, and staff well-being," said Scott Lyons, branch secretary of the National Education Union (NEU).

Synergy, which has been approached for comment, said a staff consultation process would begin in January, with those affected not returning for the new school year in September.

In a letter to RHSC parents, Synergy said pressure on school budgets was "immense" and government under-funding - as well as falling rolls due to the birth rate in Norfolk - meant not every school place was filled.

It said its comprehensive review would look at where cost savings could be made, "while minimising the impact on the overall functioning of the school".

"We will continue to ensure that RHSC provides a high standard of education," it added.

"The school will enter a period of change and we will be restructuring the staffing at the school, which will mean that a number of teaching and non-teaching roles will no longer be part of the structure in September 2025."

It said it understood the changes were "concerning" and that it was "committed to ensuring our curriculum delivery remains unaffected".

Anna, who has two children at Reepham, including a daughter in Year 11 with severe anxiety disorder, said: "She doesn't find things easy but the teachers are absolutely fantastic; I can email them and they are so 'on it'.

"We are going to lose some incredible teachers and they cannot possibly continue with that level of support with fewer staff.

"From a parent's perspective it's extremely concerning – we've found this out just before Christmas and it's confusing what's going on, we're piecing together information."

Mr Lyons said the NEU represented a "significant number of members" directly affected by the plans at both schools.

"Their dedication to their roles is unwavering, but they face uncertainty and disruption that could undermine the stability and morale of the school community."

Parents had taken to social media to share their "huge concerns" about the knock-on effect on their children's education, and the trust's ability to maintain standards of teaching and support, he added.

"We understand the financial pressures facing schools nationally, but we urge the trust to prioritise transparent consultation, minimise job losses, and explore all possible alternatives to protect staff livelihoods and ensure stability for pupils."

Synergy, which is based at Reepham High, runs 13 other schools in Norfolk, including high schools in Sheringham and Stalham.

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