Pupil Premium FAQs and Resources
Below you will find answers to frequently asked questions about Pupil Premium. Helpful links and resources for families can also be found in the resources section further down this page. Click here to jump straight to resources.
FAQs
What is Pupil Premium?
Pupil Premium is funding given to schools by the Government to help support pupils who may face additional barriers to learning. The funding allows schools to provide extra support, resources and opportunities so that all pupils can succeed.
Who is eligible for Pupil Premium?
Pupils may be eligible if they:
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Are currently eligible for Free School Meals
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Have been eligible for Free School Meals at any point in the last six years
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Are Looked After Children (Children in Care)
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Are Previously Looked After Children, including those adopted from care
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Have a parent or carer serving in the Armed Forces (Service Premium)
How do I check if my child is eligible for Free School Meals?
You can check eligibility and apply online using Hampshire County Council’s system:
Does my child have to take a school lunch to qualify?
No. Even if your child prefers to bring a packed lunch, registering for Free School Meals can still allow the school to receive additional funding to support their education.
What support might be available?
Support will vary depending on a pupil’s needs, but may include:
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Help with school uniform or equipment (see our Resources section for relevant forms)
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Support with educational trips and enrichment activities
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Additional academic support
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Access to resources that support learning
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Pastoral and wellbeing support where appropriate
What happens if my child cannot access their Free School Meal at school?
If your child is eligible for Free School Meals (FSM) but is unable to access their meal at school for certain reasons, the College may provide a Huggg voucher to help cover the cost of food. This may apply in situations such as periods of medical absence (supported by appropriate documentation), occasions when the College asks pupils not to attend, such as an unexpected school closure, or when a pupil is on a reduced timetable and unable to access lunch at school.
To allow Huggg to send the voucher directly to you, we require your permission to securely share your email address with them. For further information, please follow the instructions on the Form – FSM Voucher Permission which you can find in the Resources section.
Will other families or pupils know if my child receives support?
No. Support is provided sensitively and confidentially. We aim to ensure that pupils can access support without feeling singled out.
What if my family circumstances change?
If your circumstances change at any time, you can check eligibility for Free School Meals and apply online. If you are unsure what support may be available, you are welcome to contact the school to discuss this.
How does the school decide how Pupil Premium funding is used?
Swanmore College carefully reviews the needs of pupils and uses research and evidence to decide how funding is spent. The aim is always to remove barriers to learning and provide support that will have the greatest positive impact on pupils.
How can I find out how the funding is used at Swanmore College?
Schools are required to publish a Pupil Premium Strategy Statement each year which explains how funding is being used and the impact it has on pupils.
You can find Swanmore College’s strategy statement and previous reports on the Pupil Premium Strategy and Reports page.
Can I speak to someone about support for my child?
Yes. If you have questions or would like to discuss support for your child, you are welcome to contact the school. A member of the Pupil Premium team will be happy to talk through what support may be available. All conversations are handled with care and confidentiality.
Email: pp-help@swanmore-sec.hants.sch.uk
Phone: 01489 892 256 | Press ‘5’ on the phone menu for Pupil Premium