School finances
Councils are currently discussing how to manage school finances, including funding for special educational needs and increasing schools' financial flexibility.
In November 2025, Ealing Schools Forum approved the transfer of £1.69 million from the schools block to the high needs block to address funding pressures for special educational needs for the 2026-27 financial year. This funding supports pupils with Education, Health and Care Plans in mainstream schools, as decided at their meeting on 20 November 2025.
Also in November 2025, Hounslow Council Schools Forum considered proposals to raise the threshold for surplus balances, potentially allowing schools to retain a larger percentage of their funding. The council intends to review and update the Scheme and Financial Regulations for Financing to improve schools' financial planning and management, as discussed on 17 November 2025.
Key facts
- Ealing Schools Forum approved a £1.69 million transfer from the schools block to the high needs block in November 2025. Source
- The transfer by Ealing Schools Forum is for the 2026-27 financial year. Source
- Hounslow Council Schools Forum discussed raising the threshold for school surplus balances in November 2025. Source
- Hounslow Council intends to review and update the Scheme and Financial Regulations for Financing. Source
About this summary
This summary was written automatically from our published stories and the council meeting records they draw on. It describes what councils have discussed and decided; it does not take a view on any decision. Each key fact links to the story it comes from. Updated 30 September 2026. Spotted a mistake? Email community@opencouncil.network.