The Schools Forum of Staffordshire Council was scheduled to consider updates on school budgets, discuss the allocation of funding for high needs places, and review the council's work programme. The meeting's agenda also included a report on the National Offer Day (NOC) and Late Decisions (LDs) for school admissions.

School Budgets Update

A key item on the agenda was an update on school budgets. The report pack indicated that this discussion would cover the financial position of schools within Staffordshire. It was scheduled to provide information on the latest financial data and any emerging trends or challenges affecting school finances. The report, titled School Forum - Schools Budgets Update 22-01-26 7. School Forum - Schools Budgets Update 22-01-26.pdf, was intended to inform the forum about the current financial landscape for schools.

High Needs Block Funding

The forum was also scheduled to review the allocation of funding for high needs places. This discussion was to be informed by the HNB Schools Forum Report January 2026 8. HNB Schools Forum Report January 2026.pdf. High needs funding is allocated to local authorities to support children and young people with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) who require additional resources beyond those typically provided in mainstream schools. The report was expected to detail how this funding is being distributed and any considerations for future allocations.

National Offer Day and Late Decisions

The meeting was set to include a discussion on National Offer Day (NOC) and Late Decisions (LDs) for school admissions, as detailed in the document NOCs and LDs January 2026 6. NOCs and LDs January 2026.pdf. National Offer Day is the date when parents are informed of the primary school place offered to their child. Late Decisions refer to admissions processed after the initial allocation period. This item was likely to cover the outcomes of the recent admissions round and any associated challenges or successes.

Council Work Programme

The Schools Forum was also scheduled to consider the council's current work programme. The CURRENT work programme 001.pdf CURRENT work programme 001.pdf document was to be reviewed. This would typically involve an overview of ongoing projects, future plans, and strategic priorities relevant to the Schools Forum's remit. The forum's input on this programme would help ensure that the council's work aligns with the needs and perspectives of schools in Staffordshire.

The meeting also included the confirmation of the minutes from the previous Schools Forum meeting held on 13 November 2025 Schools Forum Minutes - 13.11.2025.pdf.