2025/26 School Funding Consultation for ‘High Needs Block’ and ‘Schools Block’

Overview

The Schools Forum has a duty to consult on School Funding proposals for 2025/26. 

As outlined in last years consultation, the High Needs Block (HNB) is facing significant pressures arising from the growth in SEND. Last year we reported an in year gap of £3 million, due to the increasing growth in the number of Education Health and Care Plans(EHCPs) compared to the level of HN block funding this “in-year” deficit or “gap” has increased to £6m per year.   

We have seen further large rises in the number of Education Health and Care Plans (EHCPs). Nationally the numbers of EHCPs are reported as at January each year, and Northumberland is showing a 52.3% increase in the 4 years between 2020 and 2024, compared to 47.6% nationally. This has escalated during 2024 and as at 1 October there are an estimated 3,930 EHCPs. The additional 620 plans since January 2024 has resulted in a further estimated £4.3m increase in annual costs. 

Please provide your responses in relation to the following 6 areas. There is also a free text box at the end of the consultation, and we would welcome any thoughts or comments you are able to provide. Findings received will be shared with Schools Forum at the meeting on 27 November 2024, so it would assist us greatly if you can respond by 26 November however the consultation will remain open until 5.00 pm on Monday 02 December 2024.