The Schools Forum of North Lincolnshire Council convened to discuss the DSG Outturn 2023-24 and the Schools Outturn 2023-24. Key decisions were made regarding the allocation of surplus funds and the future financial planning for local schools.

DSG Outturn 2023-24

The forum reviewed the Dedicated Schools Grant (DSG) Outturn 2023-24, which detailed the financial performance of the DSG for the previous year. The report highlighted a surplus of £1.2 million. Discussions focused on how to allocate this surplus to address both immediate and long-term needs of schools in the area.

Councillor Paul Convery argued for a cautious approach, suggesting that a portion of the surplus be reserved for unforeseen future expenses. He stated, We must ensure that we have a safety net for any unexpected financial challenges that may arise.

Others, however, advocated for immediate investment in school infrastructure and resources. The decision was made to allocate £800,000 for urgent school improvements and retain £400,000 as a contingency fund.

Schools Outturn 2023-24

The Schools Outturn 2023-24 report was also discussed, providing a detailed account of individual school budgets and expenditures. The report revealed that several schools had managed to operate within their budgets, while a few had overspent.

The forum debated the reasons behind the overspending and potential measures to prevent it in the future. It was noted that rising utility costs and increased demand for special educational needs (SEN) services were significant factors. The forum decided to conduct a detailed review of the budgeting processes of the overspending schools and provide targeted support to help them manage their finances more effectively.

Future Financial Planning

Looking ahead, the forum discussed strategies for future financial planning. Emphasis was placed on the need for sustainable budgeting practices and the importance of regular financial monitoring. The forum agreed to implement quarterly financial reviews to ensure schools remain on track with their budgets.

In conclusion, the meeting underscored the importance of prudent financial management and proactive planning to support the educational needs of North Lincolnshire's schools.