The 2002 Education Act amended Fair Funding legislation in the School Standards and Framework Act 1998, so as to require each LEA in England – except the City of London and the Isles of Scilly, which are exempt by virtue of their small size – to establish a schools forum.
The function of a Schools Forum is to advise the LEA on matters relating to the Schools Budget. The Forum in Shropshire also acts as a consultative body on other aspects of resources policy and service development. It also acts with an extended role in advising on support service quality assurance and development. Although made up mainly of representatives of headteachers and governing bodies, it will also have "non-school" members representing relevant organisations. Such non-school representation will include Diocesan Representatives, Early Years and Childcare Partnership and Professional Association representation. The Learning and Skills Council has also nominated an observer. Elected members attend meetings and form an important link back to political decision making processes.
The Shropshire Schools Forum was elected/nominated in late 2002. It has inherited a wealth of goodwill, knowledge and understanding from the work of two predecessor bodies- the Shropshire Formula Review Group and the Shropshire Shadow Schools Forum. It has also taken a key early consultative role in the developing 2003-04 budget process.
A full copy of the Shropshire Schools Forum constitution is attached as a PDF.