As you are aware the statutory regulations for Target Setting apply to Special Schools as well as mainstream schools. Regulations require schools to set these statutory targets by the end of December 2008 for the Summer 2010 tests and examinations. To enable the Local Authority to collate all targets to meet this deadline please could you submit your targets by Friday 5^th December 2008. Due to the nature of the Special Schools in Norfolk it is expected that each Special School will be setting zero rated targets in response to the statutory framework. Therefore, please could you confirm that your school will be setting zero rated targets by emailing - Chris Jackson. In addition each school should set an absence target for 2010 and this needs to be included in the email response.

For all schools setting zero rated targets the guidance from the DCSF is that it is good practice to set measurable targets for two years ahead at the relevant key stage. These targets should include using modified National Curriculum levels, the P-scales or other performance criteria where appropriate. Separate guidance and proposed proformas have been sent to Special Schools as an outcome of the LA meeting between Special School Headteachers and SIPs. These proformas are intended to be completed with the School SIP and attached to the Autumn Term SIP record of visit. The process negotiated will enable schools to identify with SIPs the appropriate targets by key stage for pupils to ensure good progress is made.

If you have any further enquiries please do not hesitate to contact Terry Cook, Head of the Virtual School and Head of School Performance Organisation and Inclusion at Children's Services, Professional Development Centre, Woodside Road, Norwich, NR7 9QL or telephone 01603-433276 - or email.