Pupil Premium

The Government provides academies and schools with additional funding to help reduce the inequalities and gaps in attainment between those students who are on free school meals (or have been in in the last 6 years) and their peers. This funding is called the Pupil Premium.

Every academy and school can select how they chose to use their Pupil Premium allocation, as they are best placed to assess what additional provision should be made for students. Pupil Premium funding was first introduced in April 2011. It is allocated to pupils who are currently known to be eligible for free school meals or have received free school meals in the last six years, pupils who are looked after and pupils who are previously looked after (adopted from foster care).

Eligibility for Free School Meals

From September 2026, the eligibility criteria for Free School Meals (FSM) will be changing. From the start of the new school year, all parents/carers who are
in receipt of Universal Credit will be eligible for Free School Meals, regardless of the amount received.

Applying takes around 5 minutes, and you will need your National Insurance number. Applications can be made using the following link: Free School Meals
Link

There is no requirement for pupils who are already receiving Free School Meals to re-apply.

Applications for the new school year can be made now and we strongly advise that you do this before the end of term in July. We encourage you to apply even
if you have previously been told you were not eligible. Not only will your child receive a hot, nutritious meal at lunchtime, but the school may also receive
additional funding to support pupils. If you require any further information or support with your application, please contact us at
admin@verulam.aetrust.uk

Use of the Pupil Premium Funding at Verulam School

Our vision goes well beyond simply narrowing the gap between those who are economically advantaged and those who are not. We are determined to ensure that all students, irrelevant of background or prior attainment, have the qualifications and attributes necessary to succeed at a world class university or prestigious apprenticeship.