Equity, not equality — giving every pupil what they need to thrive.
At The Orchard School, we use Pupil Premium funding to remove barriers, close gaps and provide meaningful opportunities for our most disadvantaged pupils. Many of our pupils face complex challenges beyond the school gate, and our strategy ensures they receive targeted support that reflects their individual needs — emotionally, socially and academically.
We focus on relationship-led interventions, therapeutic support and enriched learning experiences that improve engagement, self-worth and long-term outcomes.
What Is Pupil Premium?
Pupil Premium is additional funding given to publicly funded schools in England to improve outcomes for pupils who are:
Eligible for Free School Meals (FSM)
Looked After Children (LAC)
Previously Looked After Children (Post-LAC)
In families with Armed Forces connections (Service Children)
How We Use Our Funding
Our strategy is tailored to our SEMH context and includes support such as:
Therapeutic interventions (e.g. counselling, key adult time, sensory support)
Reading and literacy development (including Little Wandle, NGRT and 1:1 reading)
Learning mentor input and small group academic catch-up
Enrichment activities and in-school clubs to promote confidence and social development
Pastoral support and family liaison
Transition and attendance support for pupils with disrupted learning histories
Staff training in trauma-informed practice and therapeutic approaches
How We Measure Impact
Academic progress and engagement in core subjects
Progress towards EHCP outcomes
Improved regulation and reduced need for high-level interventions
Increased attendance and reduced exclusions
Pupil and parent feedback
Accountability & Reporting
We publish our Pupil Premium Strategy Statement annually in line with DfE requirements.