Agenda item

Atul Lad presented the paper which was to inform Schools Forum of the DSG forecast at the end of October 2013 and recommend a use for part of the forecasted underspend. Schools Forum welcomed the rationalisation of previously unspent funds. From the forecasted underspend of £871,000 it is recommended that Schools Forum agree to use £500,000 for 14/15 budgets (£400,000 to the schools block and £100,000 for the high needs block). Schools Forum agreed with the figures.

It is also recommended that £300,000 from last year’s unspent contingency of £462,912 is added to the Schools Block for 14/15. Schools Forum agreed with the figures.

Schools Forum also noted the £2.8m to be added as mentioned earlier.

Schools Forum noted that the forecasted underspend and unspent contingency is likely to be a one off and not available in future years. Steve Elson referred to the potential risk of one off funding to the ability to fund the Minimum Funding Guarantee (MFG) without capping, 

Helen Huntley expressed concern about the high needs block in terms of top-up payments. Atul Lad confirmed that the figures could be higher.

Jean Cameron asked whether the underspend includes early years underspend. Steve Elson confirmed that it doesn’t as early years is likely to break even.

Nicky Willis asked if the contingency can be used if Schools Forum decides to allocate it to PFI for example. Steve Elson confirmed that if there is money in contingency  it could  be used.

Discussion took place about money for schools with falling rolls.

Schools Forum agreed to keep sight of this for 15/16.

Paul McAteer asked about underspends held by Cambridge Education. Steve Elson confirmed that they would be reported as part of the June/July process.