The 2002 Education Act amended Fair Funding legislation in the School Standards and Framework Act 1998, so as to require each local authority in England – except the City of London and the Isles of Scilly, which are exempt by virtue of their small size – to establish a schools forum.

The function of a schools forum has been changed by regulations over the years. The current constitution is consistent with The Schools Forum (England) regulations 2012, which came into force in October 2012.

The function of a schools forum is to advise the local authority on matters relating to the schools budgets. The forum in Shropshire also acts as a consultative body on other aspects of resources policy and service development. It acts with an extended role in advising on support service quality assurance and development.

Although made up mainly of representatives of headteachers and governing bodies, including those from academies, it will also have "non-school" members representing relevant organisations. Such non-school representation includes representation from the local diocese, the Early Years and Childcare Partnership and professional associations. The Education Funding Agency has also nominated an observer. Elected members attend meetings and form an important link back to political decision making processes.

A full copy of the Shropshire Schools Forum constitution is attached as a PDF, together with the current membership.