Howard Junior School – Pupil Premium Overview

The Pupil Premium was introduced in April 2011 as a specific grant allocated to schools based on census data for pupils eligible for Free School Meals (FSM) from Reception to Year 11. For looked-after children, funding is calculated using Children Looked After data returns. An additional Service Premium is provided for children whose parents serve in the armed forces, aimed at supporting their emotional and social well-being.

Pupil Premium funding is additional to the school’s core budget and is intended to help reduce inequalities by ensuring resources reach the pupils who need them most.

The Pupil Premium Strategy is reviewed annually. The next review is scheduled for November 2026.

Objectives

• Provide additional educational support to improve progress and raise attainment for eligible pupils.
• Narrow and ultimately close the achievement gap between these pupils and their peers.
• Address any underlying inequalities between pupils eligible for Pupil Premium and others.
• Ensure funding makes a significant impact on pupils’ education and overall development.

Strategies

• Pupil Premium funding will be clearly identifiable within the school budget.
• The Headteacher, in consultation with Governors and staff, will determine how funding is allocated for maximum benefit.
• The school will assess and implement additional provision for individual pupils where needed.
• Howard Junior School will be accountable for the impact of Pupil Premium spending, reporting regularly to Governors and parents.
• Information on Pupil Premium use will be published online.
• Parents, Governors, and stakeholders will be kept informed about the attainment and progress of pupils supported by the premium.
• The school will continue to develop strategies and interventions to improve outcomes for eligible pupils.
• Impact will be tracked and monitored to demonstrate the value added to pupils’ education.
• The success of Pupil Premium funding will be reviewed regularly.

Outcomes

This policy plays a vital role in supporting the educational development of pupils entitled to Pupil Premium. We are committed to ensuring these pupils are treated equitably and that funding is used effectively to overcome challenges. Through targeted support, we aim to accelerate progress and raise attainment, ensuring every eligible child achieves their full potential.

Eligibility

• Pupils currently eligible for Free School Meals or who have been eligible in the past six years.
• Pupils adopted from care or who have left care.
• Children looked after by the local authority.
• Service pupil premium applies to children of armed forces families (not based on disadvantage).

DFE Guidance for Pupil Premium can be accessed here.

For further information and to apply online for Free School Meals please click here, alternatively please see paper application below.