Decision Maker:

Outcome: Recommendations Approved

Is Key Decision?: No

Is Callable In?: No

Date of Decision: June 17, 2025

Purpose:

Content: 1.    Approved the additional investment in mainstream primary, infant and junior schools from September 2025 as set out in paragraphs 3.3 to 3.13 in order to support pupils with SEND who meet the threshold for a specialist school place but due to capacity issues cannot be placed in such a setting; 2.    Noted the increase in the high needs funding rates to The City of Portsmouth College for 2024/25 and 2025/26 in respect of post 16 students with SEND and the methodology used as set out in paragraphs 3.14 to 3.15; 3.    Noted the reduction in Dedicated Schools Grant (DSG) surplus balance from £11.5m to £11.1m before approved commitments; 4.    Noted there is considerable uncertainty within the DSG forecast for 2025/26 and that a revised budget will be prepared for the Schools Forum meeting on 8th October 2025 which will incorporate the changes set out in this report and any further changes endorsed by Schools Forum in July; 5.    Noted that the significant growth in the number of children with Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCPs) in Portsmouth means that the High Needs Block of the DSG will continue to come under pressure, and that a transfer of funding between the Schools Block and the HNB is likely to be required within the next two years.