Issue - meetings

Cabinet received a report seeking the approval to submit the Schools Block budget proforma and approval for the Early Years, High Needs and Central Schools Services Block budgets for 2018/19, in accordance with the Government's school funding Regulations and Guidance.

Resolved: That

  i.  the report, including the 2018/19 Dedicated Schools Grant (DSG) allocations, the final budget proposals for each funding block and the comments made by the Lancashire Schools Forum, be noted

  ii.  the Head of Service Financial Management (Development and Schools) be authorised to submit the final Schools Block budget proforma for 2018/19 to the Education and Skills Funding Agency (ESFA) by 19 January 2018, on the basis set out in this report.

  iii.  the 2018/19 budgets for the Early Years, High Needs and Central Schools Services Blocks be approved

  iv.  the Dedicated Schools Grant Reserve underwrite the uncertainties around the Early Years and High Needs Blocks;

  v.  the in-year review of High Needs Block expenditure to reduce the level of overspend and minimise the risk exposure of future deficits be supported.

  vi.  the decision be implemented immediately for the purposes of Standing Order 35 as any delay could adversely affect the execution of the County Council's responsibilities, specifically to ensure that the necessary proforma can be submitted to the ESFA by the required deadline of 19 January 2018.