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Pupil premium - why it's important

What is the pupil premium?

The pupil premium is extra money for schools to help disadvantaged pupils of all abilities achieve their full potential.

The amount of pupil premium funding schools receive is decided by how many disadvantaged pupils they have – schools then receive funding per pupil premium-eligible child.

Who is eligible for pupil premium and recovery premium?

To be eligible for pupil premium or recovery premium, pupils must be:

  • Currently eligible for free school meals (FSM) or have been eligible for FSM at any point in the last 6 years
  • Looked after by the local authority
  • Previously looked after by the local authority or other state care.

Pupil premium and recovery premium are not a personal budget for eligible pupils. Schools can use the funding on whole class approaches, for example high-quality teaching, which will also benefit non-disadvantaged pupils.