Decision

Consideration was given to a report on the Sponsored Academy Surplus and Deficit Policy.
 

The Forum was advised that the policy sets out the Local Authority's approach to the treatment of revenue surpluses and deficits when a maintained school converts to a sponsored academy, in accordance with Department for Education guidance and relevant legislation.
 

Officers explained that the policy had been developed to provide a clear and consistent framework for the management of school balances in these circumstances and was being presented to Schools Forum for information.
 

During the discussion, it was noted that sponsored academy conversions are generally the result of intervention where schools have not met the required standards. Members commented that, where schools are not achieving expected outcomes, consideration should be given to ensuring available resources are utilised appropriately to support improvement rather than being accumulated.In response, officers advised that the arrangements set out within the policy were prescribed by Department for Education regulations and guidance.

Resolved:

That the Schools Forum noted the Sponsored Academy Surplus and Deficit Policy.