The Scottish government has published details of how much pupil equity funding schools can expect to receive over the next two years.
The Pupil Equity Fund (PEF) figures are usually published annually, but the government said this afternoon that it was confirming allocations for the coming school year (2020-21) and the following year (2021-11) to provide more certainty for headteachers, as they respond to the school closures brought about by the coronavirus pandemic.
In total, £250 million will be distributed over the two years, with schools receiving an extra £1,200 for every child from P1 to S3 who is entitled to free school meals.
Background: ‘Use attainment gap funding to support home learning’
Related: Almost a third of teachers say £120m fund not working
About PEF: The Pupil Equity Fund - all your questions answered
Schools have already been told by the Scottish government they can use the millions of pounds being invested in closing the attainment gap to support remote learning in disadvantaged households.
Funding to close the disadvantage gap
Education secretary John Swinney said this was happening and there were “countless examples”, such as providing tablets to support digital learning at home and transport to enable learners to attend hubs, and supporting home-school link workers to maintain regular contact with children.
He added: “Closing the poverty-related attainment gap is the defining mission of this government, and that commitment will remain when we gradually exit lockdown.
“Local authorities and teachers have shown extraordinary dedication and professionalism to support young people and ensure learning is disrupted as little as possible, using flexibility to redirect PEF and wider Attainment Scotland funding resources and support to our most disadvantaged families.
“Schools know their learners best and, in providing Pupil Equity Funding for two years, we are giving headteachers clarity to assist them in their planning and decision-making, in the short and longer term.”
