Questions at Any Time to Cabinet Portfolio Holders

The Cabinet Member said the 2028-29 effect of the old formula had not been modelled and gave full-year losses of £54k for a 55-pupil school and £33k for an 85-pupil school, based on 2026/27 numbers.

1. Primary school funding formula changes

   Decided

   The minutes record no decision on this item.

   Why

   The Cabinet Member said the figures show full-year effects for schools of 55 and 85 pupils, based on 2026/27 pupil numbers, and that actual impacts will vary with future pupil numbers. The consultation noted an estimated net loss across the primary phase, because some schools had gained extra money in earlier years through class size protection and the small school top-up. The Cabinet Member said the change will give greater equity between schools, and that the Team Around the School approach will support schools that lose out.

   Based on the minutes

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1. 1

   Question from: County Councillor Gareth E Jones Subject: Newidiadau Fformiwla Ysgolion Cynradd / Primary School Formula Changes

   Minute

   Response by the Cabinet Member: Dear Cllr Gareth Thank you for your question. I have been informed that the 28/29 impact of the old formula has not been modelled. The figures below show the full year effect for a 55 and 85 pupil school, based on the 2026/27 funded pupil numbers. The actual impact on individual schools over the 3 years will vary dependant on pupil numbers estimates in each of the relevant years. 55 Pupil school impact = Loss £54k 85 Pupil school impact = Loss £33k As set out in section 7 of the consultation document to schools. ‘Following modelling of the changes across the primary phase, there is an estimated net loss anticipated, where some schools have benefitted from additional funds through class size protection and small school top up in previous years. When modelling took place as part of the work of the Formula Review Group, it led to a review of other areas of funding in the formula where there may be shortfalls due to inflation, which will be considered as part of the Authority’s budget process, which will progress alongside this formula consultation.’ In addition to these, the other factors that affect school budgets are grant income and ALN funding, which will also affect school balances. Officers have undertaken a review of individual schools’ budget positions recently and identified that some schools may have staffing structures which are over the agreed funding formula principles. These schools may therefore be in a position to amend their staffing structures accordingly, and in line with the principles, supported by school improvement and HR advisors. In terms of educational reasons for this change, I believe it will provide greater equity amongst all schools. However, I recognise that there will be some schools that are negatively impacted by the changes, but the Team Around the School approach will help provide the required support.

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