The government is set to unveil plans on Monday aimed at halving the attainment gap between disadvantaged pupils and their wealthier peers in England's schools. The proposals, detailed in a schools white paper, include changes to the criteria under which schools receive funding to support the most disadvantaged students.
Currently, disadvantage funding is allocated based on the number of pupils eligible for free school meals, which is generally available to families with an annual income below £7,400. Labour intends to broaden this criteria by overhauling the funding formula to give greater weight to family income, potentially shifting funding away from the annual pupil premium payments.
Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson said: 'These reforms are a golden opportunity to cut the link between background and success – one that we must seize.' She added that the white paper presents 'the blueprint for opportunity for the next generation, with an education system that truly serves every child'.
However, the plans have drawn criticism. Some MPs and campaigners question the effectiveness without guaranteed increased funding. Liberal Democrat education spokesperson Munira Wilson warned that basing funding on income alone risks 'hard-wiring regional inequalities'. Pepe Di'Iasio of the Association of School and College Leaders stressed the need for additional investment rather than redistributing the same pot.
The white paper also includes controversial proposals for local authorities to administer groups of schools through multi-academy trusts, and sets new minimum expectations for schools to engage with parents. Additionally, two new programmes – Mission North East and Mission Coastal – aim to tackle poor performance in deprived areas, modelled on the London Challenge.
The government also plans a radical overhaul of the special educational needs (Send) system, including individual support plans for every child with Send. However, some Labour MPs are concerned about whether parents will retain appeal rights if unhappy with support levels.
