Enfield schools are grappling with a significant financial challenge, as 15 schools report a combined deficit of £6.4 million. Recovery plans are being implemented to address the shortfall, according to discussions at the Enfield Council Schools Forum meeting on Wednesday 2 July 2025.
The deficit, an increase of £0.5 million from the previous year, was a key topic at the forum, where members reviewed the financial positions of maintained schools as of March 31, 2025. The details were outlined in the 2024-25 School Balances report.
While a number of schools are struggling, the overall picture shows total school balances at £2.4 million, an increase of £0.9 million from the previous year. However, eight schools reported surplus balances exceeding the threshold of 5% and £100,000, totaling £1.67 million above the set limit.
The Schools Forum noted that the local authority is reviewing arrangements for schools in deficit and will implement updated formal licensed deficit agreements, deficit recovery plans, and repayment schedules. The Enfield Scheme for Financing Schools sets out the requirements for schools in deficit.
The SF Workplan 02.07.25 outlines future discussions, including schools in financial difficulty and budget monitoring.
