BRAINTREE’S MP says he is “disappointed” that a school has chosen to ask parents to contribute money to keep its counselling service running.

James Cleverly, MP for Braintree, refuted claims by the head of Notley High School, David Conway, that cuts to services at cash-strapped schools were a necessity.

He said: “Ultimately schools are responsible for managing their own budgets.

“I am disappointed the school feels the need to take this action particularly in light of the results of the survey into the National Funding Formula and the announcement that all schools will see a funding increase in cash terms.

“It is disappointing they have decided to go down this particular route when other schools have managed not to.”

Education Secretary Justine Greening announced the funding on Monday.