Early Years and Schools Banding Redesign
Early years and schools banding redesign
Southwark Council has been reviewing how it allocates high-needs funding to schools and early years settings. It is part of the Department for Education’s Safety Valve programme.
The focus of the redesign is to make sure that schools and settings get appropriate funds to support children with an EHCP, at all levels of need.
What the redesign will achieve
The council has been working with stakeholders, including parents, to develop a system that:
- reflects the range of needs across Southwark schools and how that compares with other areas
- is transparent and fair, and clearly identifies levels of need, provision and appropriate funding
- supports improvement in the quality of EHCPs
- enables schools and settings to demonstrate the difference that the funding is making
The timescale for the new banding
The project started in autumn 2024 with detailed research, consultation, planning and budget consideration. The new banding is planned to begin from September 2026.
Who to contact
Emma Ferrey is the project lead and her working days are Tuesdays and Fridays. She can be contacted at emma.ferrey@southwark.gov.uk or on 07932 660092.