At Astrea Academy Netherwood, our vision is to ensure that every scholar, regardless of background, disadvantage, or prior attainment, has the opportunity to thrive academically, socially, and personally. We are committed to breaking down barriers to learning and narrowing the attainment gap between disadvantaged pupils and their peers.

Our Intent

The Pupil Premium funding will be used strategically to:

  1. Raise attainment and accelerate progress – ensuring disadvantaged scholars achieve ambitious outcomes across all subjects.
  2. Ensure equity of opportunity – so that disadvantage does not limit access to enrichment, cultural capital, or wider experiences that support personal growth.
  3. Provide high-quality teaching – recognising that the most effective way to improve outcomes for disadvantaged scholars is through excellent classroom practice.
  4. Deliver targeted academic support – offering personalised interventions and additional provision where needed.
  5. Support wellbeing and readiness to learn – addressing barriers such as attendance, behaviour, and mental health, so that scholars are able to engage fully with learning.
  6. Work in partnership with families and the community – building strong relationships to ensure support for scholars extends beyond the classroom.

Our Approach

  • Evidence-informed practice: Our strategy is based on the Education Endowment Foundation’s (EEF) research and tiered approach, focusing on high-quality teaching, targeted academic support, and wider strategies.
  • Whole-school responsibility: All staff share responsibility for disadvantaged scholars and are committed to ensuring equity and excellence for all.
  • Rigorous monitoring and evaluation: We regularly review the impact of pupil premium spending to ensure it is improving outcomes and adapt strategies as needed.
  • Ambition for all: We set high expectations for every scholar, aiming to remove barriers rather than lower standards.

Our Vision

We believe that disadvantage should never be a barrier to success. At Astrea Academy Netherwood, pupil premium funding is used to ensure that every scholar is empowered to leave school with the qualifications, character, and skills to lead a fulfilling life and make a positive contribution to society.

Pupil Premium FAQs – Astrea Academy Netherwood

1. What is the Pupil Premium?

The Pupil Premium is extra funding given to schools by the government to help disadvantaged pupils do as well as their peers. It is designed to improve academic outcomes and provide wider opportunities for children who may face barriers to learning.

2. Who qualifies for Pupil Premium funding?

Your child may be eligible if:

  • They are or have been eligible for free school meals in the last six years – you can apply here: Free school meals – https://www.barnsley.gov.uk/services/schools-and-education/free-school-meals/
  • They are in care, or have been adopted from care
  • They have a parent serving in the armed forces
     If you’re unsure, please contact reception.

3. How does the school use the Pupil Premium?

At Netherwood, we use Pupil Premium to:

  • Improve teaching and learning across the school
  • Provide targeted academic support
  • Offer wider support for wellbeing, attendance, enrichment, and access to opportunities outside the classroom

4. How do you know it makes a difference?

We regularly check the progress, attendance, and wellbeing of Pupil Premium scholars. The impact of funding is reviewed by school leaders and governors and shared publicly in our annual Pupil Premium Strategy Statement which can be found on the academy website.

5. How can parents and carers get involved?

We value the partnership between home and school. Parents can:

Speak with us if your child needs extra support – we are here to help

Ensure your child attends school every day, ready to learn

Encourage them with reading, homework, and enrichment opportunities

Ofsted Inspection March 2024 – Click here

Find and compare schools in England here.

For information about results, please click below:

https://www.compare-school-performance.service.gov.uk/school/143907/netherwood-academy/secondary