What is the Pupil Premium?
The National Picture
The Government introduced the Pupil Premium funding in April 2011. This grant, which is additional to main school funding, is seen by the Government as the best way to address the current underlying inequalities between children eligible for free school meals (FSM) and their peers, by ensuring that funding to tackle disadvantage reaches the children who need it most. The Pupil Premium is allocated to schools and is clearly identifiable. School can decide how the Pupil Premium is spent since they are best placed to assess what additional provision should be made for the individual pupils within their responsibility.
Pupil Premium funding is specific funding allocated for individual pupils in receipt of FSM. There is a separate allocation of £200 per child for military families as they may be subject to significant re-location. All outcomes academically are tracked and are subject to specific elements of any OFSTED inspection.
Funding and Strategy
Our school aims that every child achieves their best from their own unique, individual starting point. This aim is shared by all staff and governors without prejudice.
Barriers to learning for Pupil Premium Children
Although not exclusive, the following barriers have been identified for some pupils who receive pupil premium funding at Sheepscombe Primary School.
- Late entry to school leading to lower starting point.
- Behaviour and attitude to learning and attendance.
- Some children have support from external agencies due to a range of complex needs.
- Access to a range of experiences, including social and educational out of school activities.
- Some children do not arrive at school fully prepared, resourced and ready to learn.