Rachael Williams, head of Education, Learning & Skills, presented a detailed breakdown of the current financial position. The DSG is currently forecast to overspend by £1.122m, with main budget pressures continuing to be the Early Years Block, Independent special school fees and the Higher Needs Block.

Pressures in the Early Years Block centre on the 30 hours funding uptake, with a larger number of children (530) eligible than the DfE funded for (300). It is recognised that this is based on a national formula, and individual LAs have no influence in determining this, but members sought clarification from the DfE on the reasons for the large funding differential.

Pressures in the Higher Needs Block are down to the large increase in the number of Requests for Statutory Assessments (RSAs) in Torbay, much higher than the national average. Members expressed concerns that these pressures remain, despite the decision taken by Schools Forum to vire money into this block, and are concerned at what impact they are having.

Action – RW to ask DfE for written response to Early Years Funding issues, and report back to next Forum in January.

Action – RW to monitor uptake of 30 hours offer on a termly basis.