National Budgets- Simple Summary

DfEE's own timetable!

This was a very helpful run though of some of the key difficult issues arising from the Government programme. The NEYN has £20k from DfEE to prepare so many issues of Partnership Post and to organise these 5 regional meetings as a "Partnership Support Project". It is one of the 3 National Organisations supported by DfEE (with Kids Club Network and Daycare Trust – but not CHIC!) Patricia Chubb & I attended (we had difficulty getting the 2^nd place – yet Conwall failed to turn up for their 7 or so places!. Further regional contacts have been added.

The day started by running though 8 topics - smmarising what was in the Guidance, but then going on to pose difficult questions relating to each area (copies available from Dave). These covered

	Partnership & co-operation between sectors,
	Local Infrastructure & Networks,
	Involving Parents in Partnerships,
	Consulting with Children,
	Admissions, Funding,
	Equality of Opportunity,
	SEN;.

	The unrealistic timetable – including noting the DfEE’s own relaxed approach to its own timetable (see helpful table below). Noted that whilst DfEE were very willing to listen, they were not always fully aware of local government/ vol sector reality.
	The delicate balance needed with the LA given all the responsibility for the work & money (well inc TEC) – where does that leave the Partnership?
	The use of a "members & users" social "marketplace" to inform each other about our work. Also promoting non-contact time & "visits" between settings.
	The apparent move to a Foundation stage for 3, 4 and 5 year olds. (We need to knock the "Key Stage 0" name on the head – see TES report).
	I also ensured that the national issues (Police Checks; lack of transparency or understanding or real loical increase from SSA/ RSG money; and need for National Voice for Partnerships) did not go unheard. Also promoted Bristol EY&CP via our Newsletter.

Patricia & I found the day very useful – particularly to have an informed critique and discussion around the difficult issues. It was a pity more were not present, but then better quality than quantity!.

BUDGETS: A simple summary

1. Initial bids with Plans by 1 February 1999. Revised bids can be submitted up to 31 January 2000.
2. There will be a rolling application programme, with a series of dates by which applications can be submitted until Spring 2002. All projects should begin by Spring 2003.
3. An allowance for Baseline assessment was included in the Standards Fund for 99-2000. The deadline for Standards Fund 99-2000 has also passed. Section.5. Relates to Early Years Training & Development (Grant @ 50%). S.26 covers Education of Trabvellers & Displaced persons.

DFEE's LAID BACK APPROACH TO MEETING  ITS OWN TARGETS: WHAT WE’RE WAITING FOR

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