The Pupil Premium Grant (PPG) is additional funding given to schools so that they can support their FSM (eligible for free school meals) children and close the attainment gap between them and their peers. It is allocated to schools for children who are eligible for FSM or who have been eligible in the past 6 years. Pupil premium is also provided for pupils who are adopted from care and children who have left care under a Special Guardianship or Residence Order.

Key principles and barriers to educational achievement:

The targeted and strategic use of Pupil Premium will support us in achieving our aspirations for Pupil Premium children. In using the Premium at The Willows School Academy Trust, we will adhere to the following principles:

• Teaching and learning opportunities meet the needs of all of the pupils.

• Appropriate provision is made for pupils who belong to vulnerable groups. This includes ensuring the needs of socially disadvantaged pupils are adequately assessed and addressed.

• We also recognise that not all pupils who are socially disadvantaged are registered or qualify for free school meals.

• Pupil Premium funding will be allocated based on a needs analysis, which will identify priority classes, groups or individuals. Limited funding and resources means that not all children receiving free school meals will be in receipt of Pupil Premium intervention at any one time; the Premium funding is allocated fairly according to this principle and can therefore be allocated to any pupil regardless of their achievement. Put simply, the Premium is targeted at all pupils who are disadvantaged where there is a need.

There are many potential barriers to the under-achievement of PP children. This may include a lack of educational support or ambition from home or an absence of funds to pay for enriching trips or experiences. Pupils may feel socially isolated because they are not receiving the same opportunities or experiences as their peers. There may be additional issues or it is a range of specific and complex factors that affect each individual. Our aim is to know the individuals and their circumstances and make the best provision for them based on this knowledge.