Agenda item

Elizabeth Griffiths introduced the report (Agenda Item 10), which reported on the outturn position of ten schools that had set a deficit budget in 2024/25 and four further schools that had closed 2024/25 with an unlicensed (unplanned) deficit.

The total deficit for licenced deficit schools was £652k which was an improved position compared the projected amount of £873k. The total deficit for unlicensed deficit schools was £344k.

Paul Davey sought clarification on the sources of information for the report, as he was of the understanding that Enborne Primary had been advised they were not in deficit by the LA’s Schools’ Finance Department, and he was therefore confused to see the school on the list. Elizabeth Griffiths confirmed that she had investigated this matter, and they could not trace back to the advice provided. Information held for the school showed that the school had closed the year in deficit on the finance system, with insufficient year-end information provided for the closing position to be any different to what was set out in the report. Some of this year end information was still awaited from the school. Paul Davey would take the matter forward with the school.

RESOLVED that the Schools’ Forum noted the report.