Pupil premium present

WARRINGTON schools have been given a multi-million pound Christmas present by the coalition government.
The £4.6 million cash is an increase in the Pupil Premium funding, which targets extra money to schools depending on the number of children from disadvantaged backgrounds they have. The Pupil Premium is a major Liberal Democrat priority that is being delivered by the Coalition Government. In Warrington 5119 pupils are expected to be eligible.
The Pupil Premium covers any primary or secondary school pupil registered for Free School Meals in the past six years. For 2013/14, it will be worth nationally £1.65bn, or £900 per pupil.
Cllr Peter Walker, (pictured) Lib Dem Education Spokesperson on Warrington Council said, “Liberal Democrats are helping re-build a strong economy and fair society where everyone can get ahead. To do that we need to make sure that children are not held back by poverty and disadvantage. For too long, social background has been a deciding factor in a child’s chances for the future.
“I am proud that the Liberal Democrats are helping every child in our town to reach their full potential. This money does not just help the poorest children, it helps every child. Fewer children falling behind means less disruption in class and a better education for everyone.
“We are already seeing how the Pupil Premium is making a difference to children’s lives. Extra tuition, better IT resources and closer work with parents are all examples of how the Pupil Premium is being used to support our schools. This means that, as a result of Liberal Democrats in the Coalition Government, more children will get a better start in life.”