High Needs Top Up funding (sometimes called Element 3 funding) is for pupils with Education Health and Care Plans (EHCPS).
It is determined by the EHCP Multi Agency Panel supported by a banding descriptors matrix. Funding is allocated in line with 10 funding bands agreed by the Southend Education Board in June 2021.
The banding descriptors grid should be used when:
- an Education Health and Care Needs Assessment has taken place and;
- it has been agreed to issue an EHCP
The banding descriptors grid supports 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.