As part of their pupil premium arrangements, the DfE introduced a Service Children's Premium in April 2011. The DfE states that “Unlike the main deprivation premium, this is not about raising attainment but about providing additional (mainly pastoral) support".

See below or click here to find out how we intend to spend the Service Children's Premium.

The Service Children Premium

In recognition of the fact that each student’s situation is different, this money is not shared out equally between service children, instead we aim to spend it in a way that deals most effectively with a service child’s needs at any given point in time. Our practice is informed by the DfE research and guidance, which outlines the main features of successful practice. Further details of what we do can be seen here.

Facilitating admission arrangements and effective communication

We have appointed a member of staff responsible for cross phase links who will be the key point of contact and support for students coming in to the school. She will liaise with parents and the child to ensure that transition into the school runs as smoothly as possible.

Our administrative team will work hard to ensure that transfer information is accessed to ensure that students are put into the correct groups and strategies put into place to deal with issues surrounding things like changing specifications and courses. We also use information from our entrance testing arrangements to help place students correctly within the school.

Ensuring continuity of provision

A change of schools, particularly during key stage 4 and the Sixth Form, can be difficult because it is very rare for the specifications and courses being followed to match up. We would expect to direct considerable teaching resources, costing well in excess of the amount allocated per pupil, towards supporting students in this situation.

For students with special educational needs our SEN Coordinator will work closely with our cross phase links coordinator to make sure that there is effective continuity in provision for these children and to minimise issues that may arise due to the transfer and change.

Supporting the social and emotional well-being of the children.

We recognise that students may find it difficult to cope because of the regular movements that can accompany a service career and because of the emotional pressure of having parents away for long periods on potentially dangerous postings. Our Service Children’s Coordinator, who is an ex-member of the armed services, is able to give all service children access to additional emotional support when they need it.