From the beginning of the Autumn Term 2021 all High Needs Top up funding (sometimes referred to as Element 3 funding) for pupils with Education Health and Care Plans (EHCPS) will be determined by the EHCP Multi Agency Panel supported by a new banding descriptors matrix. As a result, funding will be allocated in line with the 10 funding bands agreed by the Southend Education Board at the meeting in June 2021.

The banding descriptors grid should be used when an Education Health and Care (EHC) Needs Assessment has taken place and it has been agreed that it is appropriate to issue an EHCP.

The banding descriptors grid will support the Panel to determine the level of top up funding to be allocated, recognising the setting the child or young person is placed in. Recognising the uniqueness of every child the ultimate decision rests with the Panel but the banding descriptors grid has been designed to mirror the decisions taken by the panel over a period of time.