The Government provides the Pupil Premium, in addition to main school funding, to help address the national gap in outcomes between pupils eligible for Free School Meals (FSM) and their peers. This funding ensures that support for disadvantaged pupils reaches those who need it most.
Introduced in April 2011, the Pupil Premium is allocated to schools for pupils who have been eligible for FSM at any point in the last six years. Schools also receive additional funding for children who have been looked after continuously for more than six months, and for children of service personnel.
The catchment area of MEA Central covers a wide range of socio-economic backgrounds, including some of the most deprived neighbourhoods both locally and nationally.
Because of this, we analyse our Pupil Premium cohort carefully to understand the specific barriers and local challenges that may affect progress. We avoid assumptions and recognise that barriers are often complex, varied and not always visible. A significant part of our work focuses on closely monitoring progress and responding rapidly to emerging needs.
We also recognise that every pupil, whether they are eligible for the Pupil Premium or not, bring their own strengths, talents and aspirations. Our Pupil Premium cohort reflects the full diversity of our community: pupils with high prior attainment, those still developing foundational skills, and everything in between. Our systems are designed to ensure that all pupils are supported to achieve their potential.
All staff are committed to our inclusive school vision: “A fantastic future for all.”