Pupil Premium

What is ‘Pupil Premium’?

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 are eligible for Free School Meals (FSM). From 2012-13, it was  expanded to include all children who have been eligible for 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), Adopted Children or Armed Forces children.

At St Mary’s School, a full evaluation of the initiatives used takes place at the end of the academic year and this focuses on academic gains and progress made. It also focuses on how pupils’ self-confidence has developed as a consequence of the interventions. Where appropriate, changes in attendance, behaviour, and attitudes to learning are also monitored.

Is your child entitled to Pupil Premium?

What Is Pupil Premium?

The pupil premium is additional funding for publicly funded schools in England to raise the attainment of disadvantaged pupils of all abilities and to close the gaps between them and their peers.

It was introduced in April 2011 and is allocated to schools to work with pupils who have been registered for free school meals (FSM) at any point in the last six years. Looked after children and those of service personnel also attract funding.

 What Funding Will School Receive For Each Pupil Premium Child?

Schools currently receive the following funding for each child registered as eligible for free school meals at any point in the last 6 years:

• £1,345 for pupils in reception Year to Year 6
• £2,345 for Looked After Children
• £320 for children of members of the Armed Services

How Can I Find Out If My Child Is Entitled To Pupil Premium Funding?

Your child or children can get a Free School Meal if you, your partner or the child is receiving one of the benefits below:

•  Income support (IS)
•  Income Based Jobseekers Allowance (JSA(IB)) - Not JSA(Contribution based)
•   Income-related Employment and Support Allowance (ESA(IR)
•  support under part VI of the Immigration and Asylum Act 1999
•  Child Tax Credit, provided you are not entitled to Working Tax Credit and have an annual income (as assessed by Her Majesty’s Revenue and Customs) that does not exceed £16,190.
•   The Guarantee element of State Pension Credit.
•   Universal Credit

My child is in reception or KS1 and already gets free school meals. Why do I need to apply for Free School meals?

All children Reception and KS1 get Free School Meals. The school only receives funding if parents apply for Free School Meals. We are concerned that we miss out on valuable funding that could be used to help your child.

With this money we could provide extra resources for your child and pay for extra-curricular activities

If you think your child may be eligible for this funding, please download the form below. Alternatively, ask the school office for a paper copy.