Agenda item

Proposal to transfer 0.5% of the schools block funding into the High Needs block for 2019/20

CM presented the requesting the transfer of 0.5% of schools block funding into the High Needs block for 2019/20. CM stated that all schools will be consulted on the proposal, with a special meeting of Schools Forum to be arranged in November to consider the consultation responses and to vote on the proposed transfer.

CM outlined the paper explaining the proposal, which discusses DfE guidance and an explanation of the reasons behind the proposal, which include:

o   Increasing numbers of pupils with EHCPs

o   Increase in post-16 numbers and costs

o   Increasing complexity

o   Additional specialist places

The paper also explains changes in alternative provision, how the proposal will affect the achievement by children and young people with special educational needs, and the council’s strategic financial plan to re-align High Needs expenditure to the High Needs block.

HP added that Barnet is very inclusive, however there are inconsistencies in funding, and this is particularly significant because of increasing post-16 numbers.

ML asked if all the 0.5% increase in Schools Block funding will be transferred to HN. CM confirmed this would be the case.

JD asked if during consultation with schools that both the positives/benefits, and risks/negatives, were presented. CM said he will take the suggestions on board.

SH asked as schools were paying for empty HN places in 2018/19, would this still be the case in 2019/20.  HP advised that vacant places are still being funded in 2018/19, but the review of HN places is currently being finalised for 2019/20 and this will align commissioned places to occupied places.  JD stated that for ARPs to be viable, funding should be based on commissioned place numbers.

RA asked if LBB could review the principles behind ARP and SEND funding to ensure fairness to all schools. HP stated that this will be taken into consideration.

IK asked whether increased pressures in pre-16 will put further pressures on the budget in future when pupils move through the age range. HP said that she is aware of the impact around the top-ups for both pre- and post-16, and the review will address these issues.

GK asked if post-16 HN pupils attracted extra funding. CG advised that the increase in post-16 HN pupils had not been matched by a commensurate increase to the HN block allocation.

LB asked if this was a problem nationally, and if so is the government aware. HP said it is a nationwide issue. CM advised he is on a CYP group that has been asked by government to contribute to their review, so is clear that they are aware of this issue.

NM asked if figures for LAs transferring funds to their HN block are published, but was advised that this information is not available.

LB asked if LAs had been refused Secretary of State permission to transfer between blocks. CM said that, to his knowledge, no local authority has been refused.

ML asked if we are running the risk of not having a middle ground, if schools don’t want to transfer the maximum 0.5% permitted. CG stated that, based on current expenditure projections, the 0.5% transfer is needed in full.

A replacement Appendix B was tabled for members, showing the anticipated impact on schools if the 0.5% transfer (£1.2m) proposal is agreed, and if it was rejected.

GK reinforced the message that transparency is key when consulting schools.