Written question asked by Paul Keetch (Liberal Democrat) on Tuesday, 16 March 2010, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Monday, 22 March 2010. It was answered by Lord Coaker (Labour) on Monday, 22 March 2010 on behalf of the Department for Children, Schools and Families.

Academies: Sponsorship

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Children, Schools and Families what consultation his Department undertook prior to the clawback of £260,295 funding from The Hereford Academy; if he will review the decision to implement the funding clawback; and if he will make a statement.

Answer: As with maintained schools, funding for academies is primarily based on pupil numbers. The funding agreement for The Hereford Academy provides for a clawback of funding should actual pupil numbers fall short of funded numbers by more than 2.5 per cent.Following consultation with The Hereford Academy, it was decided to apply a clawback over an extended period by reducing monthly payments through to August 2011, so as to reduce the impact. The academy has replied seeking a reduction in the amount to be clawed back; this case is currently being considered. In the meantime a clawback has not been put into effect.

Secondary information