Schools across the district are being offered financial support and advice by an education social network company.

The Collate Loop based in Birmingham say all 29 schools across Epping Forest could create combined savings and revenue of over £101,500 with their help.

The private social communication programme also aims maximise stakeholder engagement amongst teachers, parents and pupils and help teach students about internet safety.

A statement released by The Collate Group said: “Schools in Epping Hemnall and across Epping Forest more broadly are under increasing pressure to think more commercially about how to save money, and if possible, generate revenue.

“Schools can typically spend thousands of pounds a year on systems that are intended to improve communication, but that in practice are built on 20th century technology, cost a lot of money and don’t move the educational agenda forward.

“As the downward pressure on budgets continues, communication suffers which can lead to a negative impact on learning, a lack of focus, a failure of purpose and a loss of credibility for the school.

“The difference this money could make to the quality of education within Epping Hemnall and the positive impact it could have, is remarkable.”

According to the company’s research, Epping Forest has a per pupil funding of £4,363 against the regional and national figures of £4,505 and £4,694 .

This funding also includes LEA and academy chain central support spend.

A survey conducted by The Collate Group revealed 74% of primary school survey respondents and 73% of secondary school respondents said funding for resources have been slashed.

Almost half of respondents also said that IT provisions had been reduced.

Per pupil funding levels in 2013/2014 (scaled to 2018/19 prices) were £4,903 against the regional and national figures of £4,691 and £4,694.

Martyn Allan, Director of The Collate Loop said: "These are difficult times for education in the country.

“We must move forward together as a society and new technology provides unparalleled opportunities for schools in Epping Forest and Epping Hemnall to improve education, reduce spending and generate an income which can be used for other important items such as school equipment and additional resources.

“We are proud to offer our private social network to schools as a way of contributing to solving a number of problems.”

To find out more information, visit thecollateloop.com.