Jobs are set to be axed at the Hartsdown Academy in Margate.

A rise in National Insurance contributions, pension contributions and an unfunded cost of living increase have seen staff costs rocket.

At the same time a fall in the birth rate has meant smaller year groups in years 8, 9 and 10, resulting in a fall in income.

Around 1,000 pupils aged 11 to 19 are taught at the secondary school which employs 150 staff.

Principal Andy Somers said: “A financial overview as part of the Coastal Academies Trust partnership has identified areas for rationalisation and there has been a revision of the

“If the measures which we have introduced do not meet our projected figures we will be considering compulsory redundancies..." - Andy Somers

timetable, curriculum and college day.

“If the measures which we have introduced do not meet our projected figures we will be considering compulsory redundancies.

“Voluntary redundancies have been offered and taken up by some staff members, and our apprenticeship programme and support staff provision has also been examined to ensure we offer best value for our needs.

Mr Somers says the number of primary school children has increased and this will result in a bigger school roll over the next two years and will lead to the school’s expansion.

He added: “I am confident we have a strong, enthusiastic and professional team to continue our progression as we strive to deliver aspirational opportunities for all our students.

“This is the key to our success and remains our driving force as we develop our role as educators and our important role within the wider community.”