Issue details

In October 2013, the authority submitted Lancashire's Schools Block budget pro-forma for 2014/15 to the Education Funding Agency (EFA). This was based on provisional data.  The DfE have now issued final data based on the October 2013 School Census to be used in the calculation of the Schools Budget for 2014/15.

This report sets out the latest Schools Block Budget for 2014/15, which needs to be submitted to the EFA by 21 January 2014.  The report also sets out the latest budget proposals for the Early Years Block 2014/15 and sets the funding envelope for the High Needs Block in 2014/15.

However, at the time of writing, the County Council is still awaiting confirmation of Lancashire's final Dedicated Schools Grant (DSG) allocation for 2014/15.  The DfE have advised that DSG allocations will be made available on 18 December.  Without the DSG notification it is not possible to calculate the final budget position for 2014/15.

Following the DSG announcement, Appendix 'B' will be issued in the new year and will provide final proposals for the three funding blocks and central items budget.

Any comments arising from the meeting of the Lancashire Schools Forum, which takes place on 14 January 2014, will be tabled at the Decision Making Session on 15 January 2014. (Appendix 'C').

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