No-deal Brexit’s impact on schools: Laid out in ‘official sensitive’ secret DfE document

School closure, exam disruption, lack of fresh food for school meals and travel disruption are all possible negative impacts of a no-deal Brexit, according to a leaked document by the Department for Education (DfE). On food, the document said; ‘Warehousing and stockpiling capacity will be more limited in the pre-Christmas period. The department has limited levers to address these risks. We are heavily dependent on the actions of major suppliers and other government departments to ensure continued provision.’ Worst-case scenario, this will mean a £40 million to £85 million rise in costs per year, an increase of between 10% and 20%. Under the ‘School Travel’ section of the document, the risk of travel disruption could result in closures of schools and early years settings, absences of pupils and staff and exam disruption. There is also a mention of medical supply shortages, especially for SEN students, though this is classified as low risk.

‘With our education system already at breaking point after years of Tory budget cuts, being forced to prepare for this kind of chaos is the last thing that schools and nurseries need,’ said the Shadow Education Secretary, Angela Rayner, in response to the document. The DfE have said they will not comment on leaked documents but is confident that preparation will sufficiently protect schools as ‘guidance to schools and other stakeholders already provides advice on EU exit preparations for schools, including food provision, medical supplies and guidance for EU nationals.’

Secret report reveals government fear of schools chaos after no-deal Brexit (The Guardian) No deal Brexit means food shortages and shut schools claims leaked report - Project Fear? (The Express) No-deal Brexit could cost schools up to £85m says DfE (TES)

Why should this matter to me?

In the event of a no-deal Brexit, it is a possibility that schools will need increased support in terms of both fresh food provision and funding. The government has stated that they have preparations in place to deal with issues. However, it would be best to stay vigilant of protentional issues arising from any form of Brexit, especially if the DfE is paying attention as well.