In 2011-2012 the Government launched its pupil premium funding. The ‘Pupil Premium’ is given to schools based on the numbers of pupils in the school who have been eligible for Free School Meals (FSM) within the last 6 years. 

The funding is allocated to a range of initiatives aimed at supporting more disadvantaged pupils, to ensure they benefit from the same opportunities as all other children and to ensure that they reach their full potential.

In addition to FSM the school may also receive pupil premium for any ‘Looked after children’ (Children in Care), or a ‘service child premium’ for each child whose parents are in the armed forces, as a means of supporting them through the challenges they face.

A full evaluation of the initiatives used will take place at the end of the academic year and will focus on academic gains and progress made. It will also focus on how pupils’ self-confidence has developed as a consequence of the interventions. Where appropriate, changes in attendance, behaviour, and attitudes to learning will also be monitored.