URL: https://democratic.bracknell-forest.gov.uk/ieDecisionDetails.aspx?ID=3846

Decision Maker: Cabinet Member for Children and Young People

Outcome: Recommendations Approved

Is Key Decision?: Yes

Is Callable In?: Yes

Purpose: To approve the new SEND banding tool.

Content: To approve the new SEND banding tool. The proposed new banding tool is approved. The banding tool is an important part of the BFC Safety Valve programme and is recognised by the council and schools as requiring a significant review. The Funding Framework requires LAs to seek views of the Schools Forum in respect of the arrangements for paying High Needs Block top up funding.   i.       Implementing the banding tool at Key Stage as well as Phase transfer: Due to the significant level of change across the Safety Valve programme, and the potential impact this may have on schools, there must be consideration to choose reasonable approaches which are consistent with the Safety Valve submission while maintaining sustainability in the system.The reason for selecting the implementation model of new EHCPs and only phase transfers from January 2025 is to ensure the new tool can be implemented in a sustainable way. The council recognises the potential challenge it would create for schools to make changes to the associated bands while the child is in their current provision and want to remove the possibility of potential change to a child’s current provision.   ii.     Keep current banding tool (Do nothing): The existing banding framework has been used primarily with a cost-focused approach in decision-making. This differs from the intended method, which should prioritise assessing the needs of children and young people (CYP) and the type of support required to determine funding. Currently, over half (56%) of CYP receiving top-up funding are placed in multiple bands, making the system complex for schools to navigate.   None Report to the Schools Forum.

Date of Decision: December 11, 2024