Element 3 funding
Element 3 (E3) in Norfolk and the wider context
E3 in Norfolk
From May 2024, significant work was undertaken to review the approach in Norfolk to Element 3 funding, following the need to make in-year changes due to the level of demand and feedback from schools about how the current model was operating. Many school leaders contributed to this work through workshops and, subsequently, the Local First Inclusion (LFI) Reference Group, as well as through the Dedicated Schools Grant (DSG) consultation and conversations at various engagement events. Consideration was also given to both DfE publications when developing the revised approach for Norfolk.
We sought a solution that provides support for, and enablement of, high levels of inclusivity in mainstream schools, alongside appropriate levels of scrutiny and challenge. We also sought to design a model that is as equitable and clear as possible, to provide the greatest level of support to the system within the resources available.
Norfolk Schools Forum reviewed and fed back regarding the principles of this approach at their December 2024 meeting, the culmination of all of this collaborative work. See Agenda and papers
Element 3 and the wider context
The new Norfolk model for Element 3 funding has been considered within the context of the wider system, working with all stakeholders across the county to achieve the aims set out in our Local First Inclusion (LFI) programme, to deliver within the co-produced themes of the Norfolk Area SEND and Alternative Provision Strategy (NASAPS) which will enable children and young people with additional needs in Norfolk to FLOURISH.
This includes working, as a system, within zones with a collective responsibility towards SEND and inclusion, specifically via the new SEND and Inclusion Support Model
We anticipate reforms by the new Government, with a focus on mainstream inclusion, and will seek to update our local strategy and transformation programme to reflect these reforms.
