The Covid-19 crisis and the subsequent closure of schools could result in a significant further widening of the disadvantage gap. Steps therefore need to be taken to minimise this impact and any future disruptions to the learning and development of disadvantaged and vulnerable pupils.

This one day conference will assess the current outlook for closing the gap and improving the achievement of disadvantaged pupils. It will look at the latest Government guidance and support, including evaluating what further measures might be needed, the regulatory and inspection framework, and best practice strategies for tailoring pupil premium spend to school’s needs.

The conference will also assess priorities beyond attainment, including wellbeing and mental health support, student-centred approaches and behaviour management.

Topics covered will include:
• Ensure Pupil Premium is closing the gap – identify barriers and learn how to close attainment gaps, whilst continuously raising achievement
• Key frameworks and guidance – including Department for Education December 2019 guidance, eligibility requirements
• Find out what are inspectors looking for – preparing for inspection, the latest Ofsted inspection handbooks, and demonstrating impact beyond data
• How to spend it right: advance the use of Pupil Premium – utilising funding effectively in the right areas – where does the school need it most?
• Support the well-being and subsequent attainment of disadvantaged students – considering local contexts to tackle the cycle of low aspiration and deprivation, and supporting disadvantaged pupils
• One size does not fit all: effective use of Pupil Premium – how to tailor a whole-school strategy, and the importance of assessment and feedback to drive spending improvement.

Speakers will include:
• Cameron Parker, UK’s top motivational schools speaker
• Caroline Sharp, Research Director, National Foundation for Educational Research
• Matt Bromley, Education Advisor, Bromley Education
• Nigel Bishop, national trainer and consultant
• Tricia Murphy, Author, Consultant, and Trainer.