Cash for every pupil not up to scratch in English and maths (From Richmond and Twickenham Times)

Cash for every Richmond pupil not up to scratch in English and maths

11:00am Thursday 7th February 2013 in News By Clare Buchanan

A cash boost will give extra tuition to pupils entering secondary school with weak maths and English.

Schools across Richmond will receive £500 for every year 7 student not to reach the expected level in literacy and maths when they finish primary school.

The Government funding, which is £97,000 for the borough this year, will go towards catch-up classes and individual tuition to help children catch up with their classmates.

Schools received the money on Thursday, January 30, and will have freedom to decide how best to use the catch-up premium.

Richmond Liberal Democrat schools spokesman Councillor Malcolm Eady said: “Our aim is that every pupil should have the opportunity to maximise their potential while at school, and so ensure that everyone has a fair chance to get on in life.

“To achieve this it is hugely important that when they start their secondary school all children should have a strong grasp of maths and a good reading ability.

“It is targeted at those who need a helping hand, so their chances of success are increased rather than letting them fall behind further.

“This will allow whole classes to move forward faster together by boosting pupils’ motivation which will prevent disruptive behaviour in class.”