Our aim is to use pupil premium funding to help us achieve and sustain positive outcomes for our disadvantaged pupils.
Whilst socio-economic disadvantage is not always the primary challenge faced by pupils at Acer Academy, we do see a variance in outcomes for disadvantaged pupils compared to their peers, particularly in relation to:
The majority of pupils at Acer Academy have an Autism diagnosis and present with SEMH needs (social communication, emotional regulation and mental health needs). Many have experienced disrupted educational journeys prior to admission, including periods of poor attendance or absence from education due to unmet SEND needs. As a result, disadvantaged pupils often arrive with gaps in learning, particularly in literacy and numeracy, alongside reduced confidence and negative experiences of education.
Our pupil premium strategy is designed to remove barriers to learning by addressing both academic need and social and emotional development. We recognise that pupils cannot make sustained academic progress unless they feel emotionally secure, regulated and able to form trusting relationships with adults and peers. For this reason, high-quality, autism-informed teaching is complemented by strong pastoral support and targeted academic intervention, particularly in English and mathematics, to close gaps in reading and literacy.
Alongside academic provision, we prioritise the development of social skills, emotional regulation, independence and resilience, recognising their importance in improving engagement, employability and readiness for adulthood. Disadvantaged pupils are supported to access enrichment, careers guidance and work-related learning opportunities to strengthen progression to further education, training or employment.
This strategy is underpinned by evidence from the Education Endowment Foundation (EEF) and is driven by robust assessment of individual need. While targeted at disadvantaged pupils, many approaches will benefit all pupils at Acer Academy, supporting improved outcomes across the school.
