The Schools Funding Forum of Havering Council convened on 13 June 2024 to discuss the allocation of the Dedicated Schools Grant (DSG) for the 2024-25 financial year, the balances of local authority maintained schools, and the funding rates for early years and high needs provisions. Key decisions included the approval of the Section 251 budget submission and the endorsement of new funding rates for early years and high needs.

Dedicated Schools Grant (DSG) Allocation

The forum reviewed the DSG carry forward for 2023-24 and discussed the allocation for the upcoming financial year. The DSG is a crucial funding stream for schools, covering various educational needs. The forum examined the implications of the carry forward on the new budget and debated the best strategies to ensure equitable distribution of funds.

Section 251 Budget Submission

A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to the Section 251 budget submission for 2024-25. This submission outlines the planned expenditure for schools and early years settings. The forum approved the budget, which includes detailed reports such as the School Table Report, LA Table Report, and Early Years Proforma Report.

Local Authority Maintained School Balances

The forum discussed the balances of local authority maintained schools for 2023-24. Concerns were raised about the financial health of some schools, and strategies were proposed to support schools in managing their budgets more effectively. The forum emphasised the importance of maintaining healthy balances to ensure financial stability and sustainability.

Early Years Funding Rates

The forum endorsed the new early years funding rates for 2024-25. These rates are critical for ensuring that early years providers can deliver high-quality education and care. The decision was made after considering the financial pressures faced by early years settings and the need to support their ongoing viability.

High Needs Funding Rates and Delivering Better Value Update

The forum also approved the high needs funding rates for 2024-25 and received an update on the Delivering Better Value programme. This programme aims to improve outcomes for children and young people with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) while ensuring efficient use of resources. The forum discussed the challenges and progress of the programme, highlighting the importance of targeted support for high needs pupils.