Starting from the 2026–27 academic year, the UK government will remove funding for the International Baccalaureate (IB) programme in state schools.
Until now, schools offering the IB Diploma Programme have received extra government funding to cover the higher costs of running it. However, this financial support will end, and resources will be redirected to support students taking A-levels, particularly in subjects like maths, science, and technology.
Key Features of the Policy
- End of Additional IB Funding: The special funding (called the “Large Programme Uplift”), worth about £2,400 per IB student, will no longer be provided to state schools.
- Applies from 2026–27 Academic Year: The withdrawal takes effect from the 2026–27 session, with some short-term transitional support expected during the changeover.
- Schools Can Still Offer IB: State schools will be free to continue the IB Diploma, but they must fund it from their own budgets without extra government support.
- Redirected Funds: The government will redirect these funds toward A-level programmes, especially for students studying maths, further maths, sciences, or design and technology.
Benefits of the Decision
- Better Budget Use: The government says it wants to focus funds on high-demand subjects that directly support job growth and the economy.
- Support for STEM Fields: Redirecting resources to science and technology A-levels could strengthen skills in priority industries.
- Simplified Funding System: Removing special allowances for the IB may make post-16 funding simpler and more consistent for all schools.
Criticism and Concerns
- Reduced Student Choice: Many fear that state schools will drop the IB entirely since they can’t afford to run it without government help. This means fewer students will have access to it outside private schools.
- Inequality Between State and Private Schools: Without funding, the IB could become an option only for wealthy or private-school students, reducing social mobility.
- Loss of Curriculum Diversity: The IB is known for its broad and balanced approach — combining six subjects, research projects, and global perspectives.
- Small Financial Gain, Big Educational Loss: Critics argue that the government will save very little money compared to the value the IB provides to students.
- Transition Problems: Schools already offering IB programmes may face logistical and staffing challenges when funding is withdrawn.
Implications
- IB May Become Mostly Private: Without financial support, most state schools may discontinue IB programmes, leaving it mainly in private schools.
- Reduced International Competitiveness: The IB helps UK students prepare for global university systems.
- Pressure on A-Levels: More students will now take A-levels, which could increase competition and workload in traditional subjects.
Conclusion
The removal of government funding for the International Baccalaureate in UK state schools marks a major shift in post-16 education policy.
While the government claims this will help prioritize “high-value” subjects and focus spending more efficiently in UK state schools, critics warn that the move will limit student choice, reduce equality, and weaken global learning opportunities for thousands of young people.
FAQs
1. When will funding for the IB end?
Ans: Funding will end from the 2026–27 academic year.
2. Will schools still be allowed to offer the IB?
Ans: Yes, but they must fund it from their own budgets.
3. How many students will be affected?
Ans: Around 5,000 students in state schools may lose access to the IB Diploma Programme.
4. How much funding is being removed per student?
Ans: Each IB student currently receives about £2,400 in extra government support.
5. Why is the funding being removed?
Ans: The government says it wants to prioritize A-level students in science, maths, and technology — subjects linked to national economic goals.
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