The government's proposed reforms represent one of the most significant changes to school funding in a generation. As funding shifts from EHCP-led top-ups towards mainstream budgets to support earlier intervention and inclusion, MATs will need to adapt their financial planning, commissioning arrangements, and SEND provision. Alongside changes to the National Funding Formula and deprivation funding, trusts face a complex transition period before reforms are fully implemented. This session will explore how leaders can manage risk, plan for greater accountability, and position their organisations to deliver sustainable and inclusive provision in a changing funding landscape.

• How should trusts adapt financial planning for the new funding model and what are the key risks during the transition period?
• How can MATs make effective use of pooled funding and local commissioning arrangements?
• What opportunities exist to develop Inclusion Bases and specialist provision?
• How might changes to deprivation funding affect trust strategy and resource allocation?