Schools forums generally have a consultative role. However, there are situations in which they have decision making powers. The respective roles of schools forums, local authorities, and the Department for Education (DfE) are summarised in the schools forum powers and responsibilities guidance.
There’s no specific definition of these consultation requirements over and above the wording in the regulations. It’s a matter for the local authority to decide on the appropriate level of detail it needs to generate a sufficiently informed response from schools forum.
The schools forum regulations provide a framework for the appointment of members, but allow a considerable degree of discretion in order to accommodate local priorities and practice. A quick guide to the structure of schools forums is available on GOV.UK.
Expand the boxes below to see all the schools and non-schools members.
The constitution, agendas, meeting records and reports are available below. Older agendas, minutes and reports can also be viewed.
The Education and Skills Funding Agency have published a document that outlines the schools forum powers and responsibilities (Adobe PDF format)
If you are unable to view documents of these types, our downloads page provides links to viewing software.
This page was last updated on 23 March 2023