Issue - meetings

The Chairman introduced the report, a copy of which had been circulated to each Member and a copy of which appears as Appendix 'D' to these Minutes in the Minute Book. The Forum was advised that the Schools Forum operational and good practice guidance was updated in March 2021 and the Terms of Reference for the Forum needed updating to reflect these changes. Additionally, the Forum Membership needed refreshing to meet the proportional representation across primary and secondary schools and academies, by phase of school and type of school. Representation is also required from special schools, academies, AP schools/ academies and PRU’s. There must also be representation from other sectors including Early Years and Post-16 providers, and Diocesan representatives.

It was noted that there was an increase in Forum membership from 19 to 20 school members to reflect an additional secondary school representative in accordance with the school population. Expressions of interests to sit on the Forum would be sought. Timetables for the reconstitution were outlined and it was noted that members would need to be in place by the time of the next scheduled meeting.

The timeframe for the provision of reports was discussed and the possibility of releasing papers earlier would be considered. It was noted that the current proposals for the Constitution could be agreed but if any further changes were needed these could come back to the Forum if required.