MSP Alex Neil

North Lanarkshire’s 156 schools will receive a combined total of £8.8m, with allocations being based on the number of pupils from Primary One to S3 who are eligible and registered for free school meals.

Alex Neil, the Airdrie & Shotts MSP, said: “Even more of our children are going to benefit from creative new initiatives that will help to tackle the attainment gap in our schools.

“It’s right that this significant investment to close the poverty-related attainment gap goes straight to head teachers – giving those with the most intimate knowledge of their schools the ability to develop initiatives to benefit children.

“This investment is a key part of closing the attainment gap. Every child should have the best possible start, and the role that schools play in giving them the support they need is absolutely vital.”

Mr Swinney added: “Last year’s allocation is already making a big impact and I hope this second round of funding will help schools to build on that progress.”

Isabelle Boyd, who is North Lanarkshire Council’s assistant chief executive for education, skills and youth employment, said: “Our PEF allocation for the coming year is more than £8.5m, a similar figure to last year.

“Schools will begin spending this year’s allocation from April 1, following a series of conferences held by the Scottish Government during February and March.

“A wide range of interventions have already been delivered by schools from last year’s allocation to target resources and better meet the needs of vulnerable pupils in their care, as well as projects promoting literacy, numeracy and health and wellbeing.”

Deputy First Minister John Swinney announced the finance allocations this week