Agenda item

Nicola Ponton introduced the report (Agenda Item 14), which provided a review of the Vulnerable Children’s Fund (VCF) for 2023/24. The VCF was a relatively small grant used to support schools when there was an unexpected pressure such as a vulnerable child moving to a school in-year. It was focused on promoting social inclusion and reducing exclusions.

Nicola Ponton reported that 27 settings had successfully applied for funding over the last year and 54 pupils had been supported. The vast majority of applications had come from primary schools for children in Key Stage One. Most of the children supported had SEMH as their primary need but funding had also supported children with learning difficulties and medical needs. The feedback received from schools reflected that it was a highly valued fund that provided support for schools when there was a crisis. The VCF enabled effective support to be put in place quickly.

RESOLVED that the Schools’ Forum noted the report.