Deprived children to benefit

LOCAL Lib-Dems say Oldham schools getting £4.3million through the Pupil Premium scheme will help children from a disadvantaged background fulfil their potential.

The Chronicle revealed last week how schools in the borough will get £488 for each pupil eligible for free school meals.

Children’s Minister Sarah Teather announced that the total Pupil Premium funding for next year will rise to £1.25bn, double the amount in 2011-12, and will then increase each year until 2014-15 when it will be worth £2.5bn.

Councillor Mark Alcock said: “The Pupil Premium will benefit poorer pupils in every school across Oldham, providing extra money directly for those pupils who need it most. This extra funding will help tackle inequality and enable schools to provide the extra support their pupils need to reach their full potential.”

A breakdown of how much each school will receive in Oldham shows it ranges from nothing in a handful of schools to £245,464 at the Waterhead Academy Roxbury Campus.

Schools receive the additional funding on top of the existing school budget. Schools can spend the money in a way they believe best supports children from disadvantaged backgrounds in their classes.

Children who have been looked after by local authorities for more than six months also qualify for the premium.