| streams and taken difficult decisions in an effort to maintain educational provision while addressing budget pressures. However, the Local Authority also has a statutory responsibility, through the Scheme for Financing Schools, to monitor schools' financial positions and take formal action where there are concerns regarding long-term financial sustainability. The Notice of Financial Concern is one of the mechanisms available to the Authority to discharge those responsibilities. Whilst the Council recognises that many of the underlying causes of current deficits are outside the direct control of individual schools, the Authority is still required to demonstrate that it is exercising appropriate financial oversight where significant and increasing deficits exist.
The budgetary position isn't any better centrally. As you will have seen and heard the Council are dealing with a significant budget gap. The gap is a consequence of the unprecedented financial crisis facing all local government. BELS are supporting the Council's efforts to reduce the budget gap by putting forward savings for 2026-27 and beyond. It is a very challenging time for us all!
As ever, we will aim to give you the support and guidance that you need to help you through the year ahead and the challenges that you face.
13. Meetings
A reminder of the Director's Meeting with Chairs and Vice Chair meeting dates this year open to all schools:
Thursday 22nd October 2026 6.00-8.00pm (via MS Teams) – Director's Meeting with Chairs and Vice Chairs
Thursday 4th February 2027 6.00-8.00pm (via MS Teams) – Director's Meeting with Chairs and Vice Chairs
Thursday 13th May 2026 6.00-8.00pm (via MS Teams) – Director's Meeting with Chairs and Vice Chairs
I hope you have an enjoyable and successful first term of the year. |
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