Financing for equity in primary and secondary education
1. Education resources to subnational governments
2. Education resources to schools
3. Education resources to students and families
4. Social policies and family support programmes
Introduction
In Anguilla, the education system is highly centralised, with the Ministry of Social Development, through its Department of Education, responsible for planning, administration, and financing across all levels of schooling. Decision-making authority is concentrated at the national level.
The Ministry also prescribes the financial or other forms of assistance available to schools, as well as the conditions under which such support is provided. In addition, it oversees the management and accounting practices of principals and teachers in public and assisted private schools, covering both government allocations and funds raised through school-based activities.
1. Education resources to subnational governments
Resources are managed at the central level.
2. Education resources to schools
Under Article 32 of the revised Education Act (2022), the allocation and use of resources are regulated differently for primary and secondary schools. Boards of Management at the primary level, with Ministry approval, are responsible for managing grants for repairs, maintenance, and the reconstruction or expansion of facilities. At the secondary level, boards act in an advisory capacity, submitting recommendations to the Minister on the use of such funds. No equity-based funding formula is in place, and no provisions have been identified for additional resources or incentives for teachers.
Special education in Anguilla is designed for children who need tailored support through an individual education plan, delivered in the least restrictive and most supportive environment. Costs for these programmes are shared between the Ministry and parents. While the criteria for determining eligibility are not publicly specified, decisions are made by professional staff in consultation with parents.
3. Education resources to students and families
No information has been found.
4. Social policies and family support programmes
Financial Assistance for School Costs
Since 2020, the Department of Social Development has offered a means-tested financial assistance programme to help families cover the costs of textbooks, uniforms, and other educational resources. Support is available to households able to demonstrate immediate need. This support is available as part of the Public Assistance Programme, which aimed to promote equity and universal access to education.
5. School meal programmes
The Department of Education launched school lunch programmes in 2023, initially covering five of the six public primary schools. By 2025, the programme aims to provide meals to all six primary schools and the island’s single high school. The initiative is implemented through a partnership between the Department of Education and the Robert M. Schulze Family Foundation. No information on nutrition guidelines for the programme has been published.
