Stage 2 of the government’s process of moving to a ‘Schools national funding formula’ was published just before Christmas. Unlike Stage 1, which was about the principles of a new formula, this consultation gave some figures for people to scrutinise. Not surprisingly, it has provoked much reaction. The winners and losers have rushed into print. MPs in areas which will have more money have claimed credit for the success of their campaigns; Heads and Governors in areas likely to be worse off have howled in anguish.