Members of the Medway branch of the National Union of Teachers say six teaching posts could be cut in the area because the government has not given the council enough money.

The NUT held its annual conference in Harrogate on Monday.

The Medway branch believes that a funding increase of more than 8% is needed just to retain the same services as last year.

'Sums not right'

Medway Council has also written to Education Secretary Charles Clarke telling him of the �6.7m shortfall.

Speaking on BBC Radio Kent, NUT spokesman, Doug Macari, said: "The truth is the government has not got its sums right on this.

"They have trumpeted a lot that they have put extra cash in but their formula does not take into account many things such as increased National Insurance and pensions and various other costs."

The union in Medway has also warned of problems which could be caused if a proposed five-term year is implemented.

Officers at Medway Council have recommended the five-term idea.

But members say teachers who work in Medway and have children in other areas may have to leave their jobs because the terms would not be compatible.