Agenda item

Tony Madden advised that this report was an opportunity to review the Growth Fund criteria included in the paper submitted with the agenda pack and to agree the criteria to apply for 2017 / 18.

Tony Madden referred to item 5.2 on the report. He advised that the AWPU rate was kept at 15/16 as a benefit to the schools. Schools Forum was asked to consider other options and to decide whether to continue or to use 17/18 AWPU, but averaging the Key Stage 3 and Key Stage 4 rates for secondary. This was agreed by Schools Forum.

The report sets out the circumstances in which the Growth Fund applies. There was discussion about a number of issues. One issue, raised by Cippenham Primary School, was about when pupils are admitted into a bulge class after the October Census e.g. if a bulge class is opened in September with a small number on the roll or if a bulge class opens after the census, as there is a lag in receiving funding. 

There was discussion about providing funding for bulge classes for a second year.

Tony Madden referred to item 5.9 which shows two possible options for additional funding.

Tony Madden stated the Local Authority support for the second year if needed.

Schools Forum agreed the principle and would wish to support this this year but it was agreed that funding the second year needed to be costed. Tony Madden to bring back to May meeting. Schools Forum reviews the criteria and all aspects of Growth Fund yearly.

Tony Madden referred to the appendices of the report setting out the proposed growth.

Growth Fund to be added to May agenda.