The government has encouraged LAs to delegate as much of the School Budget to schools as possible, retaining only a small amount for core services. With the proposals for the new white paper there are fears that LAs will be marginalised as schools are encouraged to diversify into becoming Trust schools or academies.
There is much debate about these proposals and the issues that could make the admissions system become more complex and inequitable if these schools have the power to chose their own admissions policies.
Currently the backbenchers’ seem to have caused an about turn on the government’s thinking on some of these proposals. In the meantime the proposed admissions code of practice has been put on hold whilst further consultation is carried out.
Click here to see a summary of the responses to the consultation.
The continual development of school-based management is meant to provide schools with greater choice and greater ability to diversify. It has also provided greater responsibilities and accountabilities for school leaders and governors who increasingly are encouraged to carry out rigorous self- assessment.
Against this back drop are the many government initiatives; Remodelling the Workforce, Extended Schools, Every Child Matters, Building Schools for the Future to name but a few. The role of the LA in supporting and challenging schools to introduce these continuous changes can cause tensions as Authorities attempt to balance maximum financial delegation alongside their supportive role.
Increasingly the services of expert consultants like me can prove to be a cost effective way for LAs to fulfil their role. Areas which I can offer such expertise are:
