Early Years Funding Reform
The Committee has previously been consulted on the implementation of a single funding formula for early years provision. The formula was the subject of a consultation exercise prior to implementation from April 2010. A verbal update on the current position will be made to the meeting.
Minutes:
The Committee received a verbal update on the reform of Early Years Funding.
A single funding formula had been required to be introduced by April 2010 but this had now been delayed, however, Cheshire East Council could apply for Pathfinder status to implement the new formula from April 2010 if full Cabinet approved this at its next meeting. The new formula applied a base rate with additional elements based on flexibility, quality and rurality.
Following consideration by the Committee in August 2009, when the formula was being consulted upon, officers were looking at doing some pilot work of an additional element being available based on provision for children where English was not their first language.
Transitional arrangements were in place to help providers during the change to a single funding formula and a business manager would help individual schools where required.
RESOLVED: That the update be noted.