Pupil Premium is a funding initiative provided by the UK government to help schools improve educational outcomes for disadvantaged pupils. Here’s an overview:

What is Pupil Premium?

• It is additional funding given to publicly funded schools in England.
• The aim is to close the attainment gap between disadvantaged pupils and their peers.

Who qualifies for Pupil Premium?

Funding is allocated for pupils who:

• Are eligible for free school meals (FSM) or have been in the past 6 years.
• Are looked-after children (in care).
• Have been adopted from care or left care under a special guardianship or residence order.
• Have parents serving in the armed forces (Service Premium).

How is it used?

Schools have flexibility in how they spend the funding, but it must be targeted at improving outcomes for disadvantaged pupils. Common uses include:

• Additional teaching support or interventions.
• Resources and equipment to aid learning.
• Enrichment activities (e.g., trips, clubs).
• Pastoral support for wellbeing.

Accountability

Schools must:

• Publish a Pupil Premium Strategy on their website.
• Show how funding is spent and the impact on pupil progress.