Bath MP Don Foster has welcomed the news that pupils at over twenty schools in Bath will benefit from nearly £1 million on top of their school budgets.
This year, just over £950,000 is being given to schools in Bath thanks to the Pupil Premium. This is an increase of over £300,000 on the last academic year, when just over £600,000 was given to schools in Bath.
The Pupil Premium provides schools with extra money to help children from disadvantaged backgrounds. This will help whole classes move forward faster together.
Schools in Bath receiving a boost include St Michael’s C of E Junior School, which will receive £104,400; St Martin’s Garden Primary School will receive £83,700; Weston All Saints C of E Primary School will receive £75,600 and Twerton Infant School will receive £66,000.
This money can be used by schools in ways that they feel helps their pupils best. Evidence shows some schools use it to hire extra staff, for reading and maths classes for children who need an extra hand or provide appropriate IT facilities.
Additionally in 2014/15, the Pupil Premium will be increased to £1,300 per eligible primary school pupil up from £900 per child this year.
Commenting Don Foster MP said: “I am delighted by the news that so many schools in my constituency will receive a boost. All the evidence shows that if your child starts behind in secondary school, they stay behind. That is unacceptable.
“As part of the Liberal Democrats’ aim to build a fairer society, the Coalition Government is putting extra money into primary schools to help teachers support disadvantaged children.”
Liberal Democrat Schools Minister, David Laws said: “Liberal Democrats are building a strong economy and a fairer society where everyone can reach their potential.
“At the heart of that is education. The Pupil Premium helps to provide extra support for the children who need it the most.
“Helping the most disadvantaged children helps every child. Fewer children falling behind means less disruption in class and a better education for everyone.
“This will allow all our children to get the best possible start in life.”
