Decision Maker: Executive

Outcome: Recommendations Approved (subject to call-in)

Is Key Decision?: Yes

Is Callable In?: No

Date of Decision: June 4, 2025

Purpose:

Content: The Executive:   1.     Agreed to vary the banding assessment process as a result of the specific issues set out in paragraphs 4 to 8 of the report regarding Hill View School, for the 2024/25 academic year only, to allow a backdated allocation of funding.   2.     Agreed to fund £0.353m of additional expenditure from the High Needs Block of the Dedicated Schools Grant to Oak Partnership Trust in relation to the needs of children at Hill View School, for the 2024/25 academic year only, using the Council’s published banding criteria.   3.     Noted that there is a significant risk that the forecast cumulative DSG deficit will increase from £99.125m to £100.558m by the 31st of March 2026, due to the allocation of funds as summarised in paragraph 33 and 34 of the financial implications section of the report.   4.     Agreed that that the Leader of the Council would to the Secretary of State for Education about the impact of providing additional financial support for special need schools in Somerset.   ALTERNATIVE OPTIONS CONSIDERED: As set out in officer report.   REASON FOR DECISION: As set out in officer report.