It is still very common in secondary schools to begin curriculum planning at the time of KS4 options, and financial planning in the run up to setting the new budget – and to try to make the two processes come together (if at all) at some point “later”. It really is important to begin the integrated planning process immediately after the October census when the likely impact of changes in the roll (both positive and negative) can be taken into account in shaping the best curriculum provision that is possible within available resources for next academic year. Having just completed analysis of current curriculum / timetable / financial plan of two schools, my advice to both was to start the planning for 2026/27 now.
