Pupil Premium funding is used at each school’s discretion but must be shown to enhance pupils’ learning. Typical barriers to learning for disadvantaged pupils can include: less support at home; a lack of confidence; language and communication difficulties; and a lower attendance at school. The challenges vary and there is no “one-size fits all”. At Exwick Heights, we reflect on the challenges seen in our own school setting whilst applying recommendations made by the Department of Education and the Education Endowment Foundation (EEF).

We focus primarily on ensuring high-quality education through continued professional development and targeted intervention. However, we are also acutely aware of the role that social capital, aspiration and self-perception play in a child’s academic progress. We therefore also use our funding to reduce the cost of trips and residentials, whilst paying, in full, for any extra-curricular clubs and music tuition that our Pupil Premium children may wish to participate in. By participating in a wide range of experiences, beyond those at home, our pupils see themselves as capable and adventurous pupils who can aim higher than they previously expected. We monitor and review the impact of our funding regularly, adapting, expanding or ceasing any strategies as required.