SEND Mainstream Funding Cluster Model

Introduction

We would like to formally invite all stakeholders into the conversation and coproduction to the proposed Special Education Needs and Disability (SEND) Mainstream Funding Cluster Model.

Southampton City Council are proposing moving Higher Needs SEND funding to a Cluster Model for Mainstream School settings within the area. We are seeking advice from stakeholders through the coproduction period for the start date of this model but would be aiming for a start date within the 2024-2025 academic year. This model of Higher Needs SEND funding has been adopted by several local authorities. 

The aim of this approach is to improve support and outcomes for pupils with SEND. The approach will allow education settings to access Higher Needs funding in a more efficient way and to be utilised in a more flexible manner, supporting both individual pupils and wider project work. The Cluster Model will lend itself to greater co-operation between professionals and more frequent opportunities for peer mentoring and solution focused discussion.   

Contact

To support communication and transparency as part of the coproduction period, a designated email address has been established: HNFmodel@southampton.gov.uk.

This email can be used by any stakeholder to support the coproduction period by asking questions or providing suggestions or feedback. 

Monthly communication

Monthly communications will produced throughout the coproduction period. The aim is to provide updates and transparency to all stakeholders on the aims of the process, to provide details of opportunities to contribute towards the coproduction and key developments through the process.

View the latest monthly communication. 

As part of the SEND Strategy 2022- 2027, Southampton City Council has been seeking strategies to strengthen inclusive practice in its mainstream schools and settings and to ensure that its mainstream offer is high quality and consistently good. As part of this process, a review into the way in which the sector is funded and supported was conducted throughout the 2022-2023 academic year. 

As part of this process, Peter Gray (Strategic Services for Children & Young People - SSCYP) undertook a review. Peter has significant knowledge and experience of SEND funding approaches across the UK, having worked as a consultant to local and national government on this issue for over 20 years. Below is the report of his findings which has been used in the development of SEND Mainstream Funding Cluster model proposal:  

Peter Gray - Southampton Mainstream Funding Report

Other updates and news

See all the SEND updates and news.