School Funding Formula for 2026/27 Consultation

Overview

A national funding formula (NFF) was introduced for schools from 2018/19 and as in previous years, local authorities will continue to decide in 2026/27, following consultation with their schools and Schools Forum, whether this formula is applied or a locally determined formula is used.  This following consultation aims to seek the views of all Westmorland & Furness mainstream schools/academies and Schools Forum on the proposed schools funding formula in 2026/27.  The consultation also considers some of the continuing challenges around high needs budget.

All schools are encouraged to respond to this consultation. The deadline for responding to the consultation is Friday 24 October 2025.

The outcome of the consultation will be reported to the Schools Forum at their next meeting on Wednesday 5 November who will, after taking into consideration the consultation results, make a recommendation to Cabinet members who will decide on the final shape of the school funding formula for 2026/27 in December 2025.  For more information on the proposals, please read the attached documents (see below).”