Issue - meetings

To consider a report from Ellen Eager, Sufficiency and Funding Manager, Commissioning and Partnerships, People – Children Directorate

For Consultation

Forum considered the annual consultation on the number of specialist places to be commissioned for September 2026. Officers explained that the Department for Education requires confirmation of commissioned places in academies and colleges by early December, and Dorset Council aims to provide all schools with their commissioned places at the same time for consistency and planning purposes.

The report included a summary table of proposed places across special schools, resource bases, learning centres, and FE colleges. Officers noted that most special schools remain at or near capacity and that resource provision bases are broadly aligned with agreed sizes, though newer hubs are still building towards full occupancy. The Forum acknowledged that these figures are critical for the budget build, the Safety Valve model, and the capital programme.

Members highlighted the strategic importance of place management given the capacity pressures discussed earlier under the DSG item. Concerns were raised about deferred referrals and the risk of a growing backlog of pupils awaiting specialist placements. It was noted that some pupils suitable for specialist provision are currently placed in mainstream settings under specialist arrangements, which may have significant financial and operational implications if prolonged. Members stressed the need for sufficiency planning to ensure that every child is in the right provision at the right time and requested clarity on how upcoming projects will address these gaps.

Specific points were raised regarding the Forum Centre and Woodlands School, with clarification sought on how current Orchard provision is reflected in the commissioning figures. Officers confirmed that these places are included within the Forum Centre total and that Woodlands would represent additional capacity once operational. A correction was noted for the Hardyes CCN base, which should show 10 places rather than 12.

Actions:
2025/08 – Provide detailed update on sufficiency planning and capital projects, including timelines for new provision.