The Pupil Premium is additional government funding provided to schools to improve outcomes for disadvantaged pupils and to help overcome barriers to learning and achievement. Funding is allocated for pupils who are eligible for Free School Meals (FSM), have been eligible at any point in the last six years (Ever 6), are looked after by the local authority, or have previously been looked after.

It is important to note that eligibility for the Pupil Premium is different from Universal Infant Free School Meals (UIFSM), which provides all children in Reception, Year 1 and Year 2 with a free school meal regardless of family income.

At St James' C of E Infant and Nursery School, we are committed to ensuring that every child has the opportunity to flourish and achieve their full potential. We recognise that disadvantage can affect children in different ways and that barriers to learning often extend beyond academic attainment. Our Pupil Premium strategy is therefore designed to support the whole child, enabling pupils to succeed both academically and personally.

In line with current Department for Education guidance, our approach focuses on three key areas:

High-Quality Teaching

We prioritise high-quality teaching for all pupils, ensuring that disadvantaged pupils benefit from ambitious learning, effective classroom practice and an inclusive curriculum. Investment in staff development, evidence-informed approaches and high-quality resources helps to secure the greatest impact for pupils.

Targeted Academic Support

We provide carefully planned support for pupils who need additional help to achieve their potential. This may include focused interventions, small-group teaching, tutoring, support for communication and language development, reading and phonics programmes, and personalised learning opportunities designed to address identified gaps in knowledge and skills.

Wider Strategies and Expanded Opportunities

We recognise that attendance, wellbeing, confidence, resilience and engagement all play a significant role in educational success. Pupil Premium funding is therefore used to provide wider support and expanded opportunities that enable pupils to fully participate in school life. This may include pastoral support, attendance initiatives, enrichment activities, educational visits, clubs, cultural experiences, and assistance with removing financial barriers that may limit participation.

We work closely with parents and carers to understand individual needs and to ensure that support is tailored effectively. Our spending decisions are informed by evidence, regular evaluation and the specific challenges faced by our pupils. Through this strategic approach, we aim to ensure that disadvantaged pupils achieve highly, develop confidence and independence, and enjoy the same opportunities for success as their peers.

Applying for Free School Meals and Pupil Premium Funding

If you think your child may be eligible for Free School Meals, we strongly encourage you to apply. Even if your child already receives a free meal through the Universal Infant Free School Meals scheme, registering for Free School Meals may provide additional funding for the school through the Pupil Premium.

Families may be eligible if they receive certain benefits, including Universal Credit and other qualifying support payments. Applications can be made online through Cumberland Council Citizen Portal - Sign in, or parents can contact the school office for confidential advice and support with the application process.

Why is it important to apply?

Registering for Free School Meals can bring a number of benefits for both your child and the school, including:

• Additional Pupil Premium funding to support your child's learning and wellbeing.
• Access to targeted academic support and interventions where appropriate.
• Help with the cost of educational visits, residentials, clubs and enrichment activities where available.
• Support with the purchase of school resources and participation in wider school opportunities.
• Funding that helps the school provide high-quality teaching, pastoral support and enrichment experiences for disadvantaged pupils.

Many families are unaware that registering for Free School Meals can continue to benefit their child even if they already receive a free school lunch through the Universal Infant Free School Meals scheme. Every application helps ensure that St James' C of E Infant and Nursery School receives the funding needed to provide additional support and opportunities for children who may face barriers to learning.

If you would like to check whether you may be eligible, please contact the school office. All enquiries are treated sensitively and confidentially.

Current Academic Year 2026-2027

Our school’s pupil premium grant allocation amount:  £25, 530 (23 pupils)= 18%

We currently have 14 pupils (11%) eligible for free school meals.

We currently have 23 (18%) pupils eligible for pupil premium funding.