Disadvantaged primary students in Swindon will benefit from an extra £7.8m next year, designed to help bridge the gap between them and their peers.
The money is being made available through The Pupil Premium, which provides additional funding given to schools to help them support their disadvantaged pupils. The cash can be used by schools to pay for stationary boxes for pupils, educational visits and after school activities.
The Government gave £1.875bn in 2013-14, with schools attracting £900 per child and an additional payment of £53 for primary-aged pupils.
It has been revealed that for 2014-15, the funding will rise to £2.5bn, with £1,300 for primary-aged pupils, £935 for secondary-aged pupils and £1,900 for all looked-after children, adopted children and children with guardians.
Justin Tomlinson MP said: "This is excellent news for disadvantaged pupils and their families in Swindon, providing local schools with the support they need to ensure that every child, regardless of their background, can fulfil their potential. I have seen first-hand, through visits to local schools in my constituency, just how this support is transforming opportunity, driving up standards and helping equip the next generation of workers with the skills and knowledge needed to make a positive contribution to society.”
