The RAM recognises that each school is unique, and that student and school needs vary. It uses data identifying the characteristics of schools and their students to deliver allocations through a base and loadings approach.

The components of the RAM are shown as a triangle in the diagram below.

The 7 RAM loadings typically don't change between the SBAR and the SBAR Adjustments, as both are part of the same funding cycle.

Needs-based allocations are provided to support additional student needs.

The RAM components include:

• Targeted funding for eligible individual students
• Equity loadings to reduce the impact of disadvantage on student outcomes
• Base school allocations for the core cost of educating each student and operating a school, including staffing, site specific and initiative allocations.

The RAM and the SBAR

School budget allocations are provided to schools annually through the SBAR. Schools receive their SBAR in Term 4, showing their budget allocations for the following year.

Most SBAR allocations are updated in the SBAR Adjustments, provided to schools in late Term 1 or early Term 2, based on updated data. This includes staffing allocations which are updated based on published Actual entitlement reports.

SBAR allocations supports school leaders to achieve the strategic directions in their School Excellence Plan (SEP) and improve student outcomes.

SBAR allocations must be used in the year for which they are provided.

Schools must operate within their total annual school budget.

Further information