Following the concerns raised over the funding position at Anthony Roper Primary School, Sevenoaks MP Sir Michael Fallon and I met local parents and governors in Eynsford at the end of last week.
The discussion was a very useful one - with governors, as well as the MP and County Councillor, addressing questions raised by parents. My argument was that there is a strong case both for schools in general within the Comprehensive Spending Review (CSR), and for areas such as Kent to gain a greater share of the national allocation.
Much of this is captured in the 'activity-based' funding model proposed by the f40 group, of which I am an active member, and Michael Fallon has expressed his strong interest in this approach too. It is only by bringing a larger overall funding level to Kent that the lot of schools such as Anthony Roper can be improved.
Through my role as Cabinet Member at KCC, as well as my involvement in f40 and the Local Government Association (LGA - I serve on its Children and Young People Board), I will continue to argue for this approach.
Welcome to my website. I am proud to represent Sevenoaks North and Darent Valley, one of the loveliest parts of Kent, on the County Council. The Division is made up of a number of communities: Crockenhill, Eynsford (including Lullingstone), Farningham, Horton Kirby, Kemsing, Otford, Seal, Seal Chart, Shoreham, South Darenth, Southdowns, Swanley Village, Underriver and Well Hill. Since October 2019, I have served as the Leader of Kent County Council. This blog reflects both roles.