An online petition has been created to save the jobs of teaching assistants at a primary school in Suffolk amidst financial problems.

Pot Kiln Primary School in Great Cornard near Sudbury has shared a statement regarding the situation surrounding its financial problems.

Earlier this month, it was reported that Pot Kiln was looking to axe up to 15 of its teaching assistants.

This was due to an "unforeseen" budget shortfall of £75,000 and flagging student numbers, with more teaching assistants per students than other schools.

School staff have started a petition through UNISON in a bid to save their jobs, attracting 500 signatures so far.

A statement on behalf of the staff said: "We play a vital role in childrens' learning, especially at Pot Kiln, where a high proportion of pupils have special educational needs.

"Not only could we lose the jobs we love, but student learning will suffer, all because we're being made to carry the can for the school's deficit.

"We are asking the governors and Suffolk County Council to rethink their plans and save our jobs."

Laura Jestico, heateacher at Pot Kiln, said: "The school and local authority are currently working with staff, and their trades union, to seek a solution to the financial problem the school is facing.

"We are very aware of the negative impact on our staff, and are trying our best to alleviate staff stress and upset as far as is possible in this situation.

"We hope to bring this matter to a resolution as soon as humanly possible.

"The school is very grateful to all the staff who continue to put the needs of our children first, and for all organisations and people who are supporting them at this difficult time."