Decision details

Lancashire is making progress with delivery of the new statutory entitlement to eligible 2 year old children using the strategy approved by the Cabinet Member in March 2013.  A review of progress has been undertaken following the first round of bids to support expansion of early education places in priority areas.  A proposal is now made to approach the Secretary of State for Education to make a revenue contribution of up to £1.4m from Dedicated Schools Grant to early years capital projects.  This will support a better level of place provision in areas with a forecast 'gap' in provision than would otherwise be achieved.  The £1.4m revenue funding noted above has already been allocated to the expansion of places for 2 year old children by Lancashire Schools Forum.  This proposal has the support of the Forum.  The Secretary of State has approved similar requests from other local authorities.

This is deemed to be a Key Decision and Standing Order 25 has been complied with.

County Councillor Matthew Tomlinson, the Cabinet Member for Children, Young People and Schools:

i) noted the progress made in delivering early education places for eligible 2 year old children; and

ii) approved the proposal that officers seek approval from the Secretary of State for Education to make a revenue contribution of up to £1.4m from Dedicated Schools Grant to early years capital projects in areas where there is a need for new 2 year old places.