£13,500 to help pupils in Bude catch up

Budehaven School is getting £13,500 from the Government to help Year 7 pupils who didn't reach the expected level in literacy and maths when they finished primary school catch up with their classmates who did.

A number of schools are receiving £500 for each pupil who didn't reach the expected level to help them through catch-up classes and individual tuition.

Evidence shows only five per cent of pupils who don't achieve Level 4 in both English and maths at Key Stage 2 go on to achieve five GCSEs at A* to C, including English and maths.

Schools will have freedom to decide how best to use the catch-up premium, but examples could include holiday support to deliver intensive catch-up over a short period and additional services and materials to add to those provided by the school, such as tutor services or online support.

It could also cover small group tuition supported by new classroom materials and resources, which could take place at lunchtimes or after school.

The extra money was announced by Deputy Prime Minister, Nick Clegg in September.

Commenting on the extra funding Dan Rogerson said: "No pupil should be left behind in our schools, to ensure that everyone has a fair chance to get on in life. To achieve this it is hugely important that every child has a strong grasp of maths and a good reading ability when they start at secondary school.

"Catch-up classes and personal tuition are targeted at those who need a helping hand, so their chances of success are increased rather than letting them fall behind further.

"By putting fairness back at the centre of our schools system, Liberal Democrats are ensuring that everyone can get on in life. It will allow children to flourish and will help us build a stronger economy."