The report shows that the level of funding held in schools at the end of 2024/2025 was a £1.275 total deficit and compares to a £1.204 surplus at the end of 2023/2024. The report said: “As at March 31, the overall level of school balances has decreased by £2.479 million resulting in a net deficit position across all schools of £1.275 million. “A total of 10 schools were in deficit at year-end, with combined deficits amounting to £2.516 million. This funding is to help schools cope with budget pressures caused by rising pay and utility costs. At the end of this March the council had achieved £6.234 million, which was only £23,000 short of the target.