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 45.3% 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 for Free School Meals
From September 2026, all children in households receiving Universal Credit are eligible for Free School Meals, regardless of household income. Other eligibility criteria also apply, including certain benefits and circumstances.
If you think your child may be eligible, we encourage you to apply for Free School Meals. Applications are confidential and can usually be made through your local authority. If you are unsure whether you qualify, please contact the school office—we are happy to help.
Registering for Free School Meals is important because it ensures your child receives their entitlement and allows the school to identify pupils who may be eligible for additional support.
Please note: not all children who are eligible for Free School Meals attract Pupil Premium funding. From 2026–27, Pupil Premium linked to Free School Meals continues to be based on the Targeted FSM criteria.
Please click on the links below for further information: