The Portsmouth Schools Forum meeting covered several key topics, including membership changes, the approval of previous meeting minutes, the Schools Forum constitution for 2024/25, the scheme for financing schools, the DSG outturn, and addressing the pressure on the high needs block.

Membership Changes

Several changes to the membership were discussed:

• New Secondary Academy Representatives: Nick Giles from the Kemnel Academies Trust and Christian Downe from ARK Schools.
• Niss Hardingham and Simon Graham were confirmed for further two-year tenures.
• New representatives from the Liberal Democrats, Labour Party, and Portsmouth Independent Parties were welcomed.
• Resignations included Sally Hodgson and Jacqui Collins, with efforts underway to find replacements.
• Three vacancies were noted: Primary Governor Representative, Secondary Governor Representative, and Secondary Academy Representative.

Approval of Previous Meeting Minutes

The minutes from the meeting held on February 7th were approved with amendments. Jack Jones raised a concern about the disparity in funding increases between specialist placements and inclusion centres, which was not reflected in the minutes. This was agreed to be added.

Schools Forum Constitution for 2024/25

The constitution remains unchanged for 2024/25. The proposed representation proportions have not changed. The recommendation to retain the constitution was approved.

Scheme for Financing Schools

The scheme for financing schools for maintained schools was discussed. Minor changes were made in line with Department for Education guidance. The revised scheme was approved to come into force on May 23, 2024.

DSG Outturn

Angela Mann presented the DSG outturn, noting a £3.3 million underspend for the financial year 2023/24. This included a planned carry forward of £0.6 million and an in-year underspend of £2.7 million. The underspend was broken down into different blocks, with significant savings in the high needs block due to lower-than-expected costs for out-of-city providers. The report was noted.

Addressing the Pressure on the High Needs Block

Kate Mullen discussed the forecasted high needs block overspend of £2.5 million for 2024/25. A working group has been formed to address this issue, focusing on seven key areas: early years, mainstream provision, special schools, inclusion centres, tier four alternative provision, further education, and out-of-city placements. The group has met three times, and a report will be presented in the autumn term of 2024. A workshop for Schools Forum members will also be convened. The report was noted.

The next meeting is scheduled for July 17th.