Orchard Mead Academy has a Pupil Premium strategy which aims to overcome the barriers to educational achievement faced by our pupils. The effectiveness of this strategy will be continually evaluated, and a report of the effectiveness of the previous year’s spending will be published here each year.

What is the Pupil Premium?

The pupil premium is additional funding for schools in England. It is designed to help disadvantaged pupils of all abilities perform better and close the gap between them and their peers. The Pupil Premium was introduced in April 2011. It is allocated to:

  • Students who currently receive the Free School Meal allowance (FSM)
  • Students who have received the FSM allowance in the last six years
  • Students whose parents currently serve in the military
  • Students who are currently in Local Authority Care

Schools are accountable for how they use Pupil Premium funding to support low-income families and other target groups. Measures have been included in the performance tables that show achievement of students who are eligible for the Pupil Premium.

How much is the Pupil Premium worth?

Secondary schools receive £1075 funding for each pupil registered as eligible for free school meals (FSM) at any point in the last 6 years.

Expenditure Plans & Reports

Pupil_premium_strategy_statement Part A OMA 2025-2026

Pupil Premium Review of outcomes from 2024-2025- Part B

Enrichment opportunities

At Orchard Mead Academy we strive to create the best opportunities and experiences for all. The way we have chosen to spend aspects of the funding means that other vulnerable students can also benefit from the approaches adopted by the school.

As part of our commitment to delivering the best possible educational and extra-curricular experience for our students, we use some of our funding to provide additional enrichment opportunities for Pupil Premium students such as subsidising school and reward trips and towards the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award

What is the DofE

A life-changing experience. A fun time with friends. An opportunity to discover new interests and talents. A tool to develop essential skills for life and work. A recognised mark of achievement; respected by employers.

The DofE is many things to many people, supporting generations to successfully navigate adult life.

Why do the DofE

For the hundreds of thousands of young people who take part each year, the benefits of achieving a DofE Award at any level are endless. DofE is about helping you along the path to a productive and prosperous future. As many of our participants say, it’s life changing.

Special Circumstances Allowance

There may be occasions when Premium students need support in purchasing equipment, activities or trips or even uniform.

To find out more, email [email protected] or [email protected] to find out what support might be available to support you.