School Quality and Outcomes Disadvantaged Areas 2021-06-21
2021-06-21
TAGS
Response quality
Questions & Answers
Q1
Direct Answer
▸
Context
The MP raises concerns about school quality and pupil outcomes in disadvantaged areas, referencing a £10 million fund.
I am concerned about the quality of schools and outcomes for pupils in the most disadvantaged areas. The government is investing £10 million in four high-needs regions including Ashfield and Mansfield to improve these issues. What steps are being taken specifically?
We are investing £10 million in four high-needs areas, including Ashfield and Mansfield. Up to half of this fund will be channelled through the successful trust capacity fund to improve educational outcomes.
▸
Assessment & feedback
Response accuracy
Q2
Partial Answer
▸
Context
The MP follows up on cultural enrichment opportunities for schools in disadvantaged areas.
Mansfield and Ashfield will receive a share of the £10 million fund. What opportunities exist for schools to access support for non-academic sides, such as cultural enrichment and extra-curricular activities?
We are committed to bringing the most successful trusts into disadvantaged areas like Mansfield and Ashfield to drive up educational attainment. We aim to discuss with the hon. Friend how more can be done in this area.
▸
Assessment & feedback
Specific opportunities or programmes for cultural enrichment were not detailed.
Response accuracy
Q3
Partial Answer
▸
Context
The MP praises teachers and staff for their work, highlighting the issue of hunger impacting learning in disadvantaged children.
Teachers and support staff across Scotland have done a great job. However, hunger is not conducive to effective learning. When will this Government provide free school meals for all primary schoolchildren as the Scottish Government does?
We are committed to supporting families and children. We have rolled out our holiday activities and food programme, which not only feeds but also provides activities for children.
▸
Assessment & feedback
Specific timeline or commitment on free school meals was avoided.
Holiday Activities And Food Programme
Response accuracy
Q4
Partial Answer
▸
Context
The MP criticises the UK Government for not taking action on free school meals, contrasting with Scottish policies.
Free school meals make a difference for families on the edge. Why has the UK Government not taken action like the Scottish Government? Have there been discussions with the Chancellor to provide more money in this area and possibly retain the £20 per week universal credit uplift?
We support families through various means, including the furlough scheme, universal credit uplifts, and additional funding for free school meals. The devolved Administrations benefit from Barnett consequentials.
▸
Assessment & feedback
Specific discussions with Chancellor on funding were not addressed.
Various Means Of Support
Barnett Consequentials
Response accuracy