What is the Pupil Premium Grant (PPG)?

Pupil Premium is additional funding for publicly funded schools in England to raise the attainment of disadvantaged pupils of all abilities and to close the gaps between them and their peers.

The funds allocated to a school are based on the number of pupils in the school who are, or have been in the last six years, eligible for Free School Meals (FSM), and is valuable funding to support those in most need. Schools receive a payment for each child who is registered for Free School Meals (FSM).

How can I apply for Pupil Premium for my child?

At Essendon we would urge all parents/carers who may be eligible (including those receiving Universal Free School Meals) to take up their entitlement.

Please visit www.hertsdirect.org/freeschoolmeals for further details.

If you require assistance with a free school meals application please call the Customer Service Centre on 0300 123 4048 (8am-8pm Monday to Friday, 9am-4pm Saturday), or speak to the school office and we will be happy to help you.

How is Pupil Premium funding deployed at Essendon?

At Essendon, we believe that no pupil should be deprived of reaching their full potential. You can read in detail about how pupil premium is used at Essendon in our Pupil Premium Strategy. We believe in treating each pupil as an individual. We therefore consider carefully how to spend each pupil's funding in their best interests. Our pupils' needs vary hugely and include: improving engagement in school; pastoral support; enriching activities; filling gaps following periods of absence; life-skills  and many other academic and practical support activities to prepare them for the next stage in their education.

Pupil Premium Strategy

​You can read our current Pupil Premium strategy statement by clicking the link below: