Pupil Premium
What is the Pupil Premium?
The Pupil Premium provides additional funding on top of the main funding a school receives. It is targeted at students from disadvantaged backgrounds to ensure they benefit from the same opportunities as students from less advantaged families.
For the 2026–27 financial year, schools will receive £1,550 for each pupil who has been eligible for Free School Meals (FSM) at any point in the last six years (Ever 6 FSM). Schools will also receive £2,690 for each pupil who has been looked after continuously for at least one day, or who has been adopted from care or left care under a Special Guardianship Order, Child Arrangements Order or Residence Order. In addition, schools receive £350 for each pupil with a parent serving in the armed forces, or who is in receipt of a Ministry of Defence pension.
How the Pupil Premium is spent is monitored closely with all schools accountable for the impact of the money spent. At Westbury CE Junior School, we pride ourselves on utilising the Pupil Premium to support our pupils with a specific focus on English, maths, engagement and attendance, maximising the life opportunities for all students.
Why is there a Pupil Premium?
Students who have been eligible for Free School Meals (FSM) at any point in their school career continue to achieve lower educational outcomes, on average, than those who have never been eligible. National data shows that disadvantaged pupils typically attain lower GCSE results and are less likely to achieve strong passes in English and Mathematics compared with their non-disadvantaged peers. Although the attainment gap has narrowed in some areas over time, it remains a significant national concern, particularly following the disruption caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.
How many pupils at Westbury CofE Junior School are eligible for the Pupil Premium?
Currently 44% of students are eligible for the Pupil Premium.
How should schools spend their Pupil Premium allocation?
Pupil Premium money is used to deliver strategies and interventions that we are confident will ‘narrow the gap’ in attainment between those pupils which are considered to be disadvantaged and those who are not.
I think my child is eligible?
Parents and carers are encouraged to apply for Free School Meals (FSM) if they believe they may be eligible, as this enables the school to receive additional Pupil Premium funding to support their child’s education. Applying is straightforward and confidential. Applications can usually be made online through the local authority website or by contacting the school office for support and advice. Eligibility is generally based on receipt of certain benefits, such as Universal Credit or Income Support. Even if a child chooses not to take the free school meal, registering can still provide valuable additional funding for the school and access to further support for the pupil.
Please click on the links below for further information:
- 2022-23-Pupil-Premium-Strategy
- 2023-24-Pupil-Premium-Strategy
- PP-Strategy-2025-26
- Pupil-Premium-Strategy-2024-25
- WJS-Service-Premium-Strategy-Statement