Schools net millions to aid literacy and numeracy
RAISING EDUCATION standards by supporting underperforming schools and offering young people more opportunities are at the heart of a package of measures announced today by new Education Secretary Damian Hinds.
Aimed at areas facing the greatest challenges across the country, moves include the publication of plans for the next six Opportunity Areas, including Bradford and Doncaster.
Schools in both areas are set to benefit from a share of £25m to increase pupils’ literacy and numeracy skills and £46m will be awarded to successful multiacademy trusts across the country to help improve underperforming schools in “left-behind” areas with confirmation of a new round of funding for 2018/19.
Mr Hinds said: “As Education Secretary, I want all children to get a truly world-class education that not only inspires them to make the most of their lives but also gives them the opportunity to fulfil their ambitions, no matter where they live.
“Standards are rising in schools across the country but there is more to do to make sure that every child benefits from the progress we’ve already made thanks to an incredibly talented generation of teachers.
“By supporting good and outstanding schools, those schools that want to improve and focusing on disadvantaged areas where our young people need extra help we can continue to make a great difference to people’s everyday lives and build a Britain fit for the future.”
The Doncaster Opportunity Area plan will focus on four priority areas, including ensuring young people have the skills and qualifications for work and improving access to opportunities for all. Bradford will also focus on four areas, including improving literacy in primary schools, particularly for disadvantaged pupils and removing barriers to learning.
Doncaster will benefit from up to £2.75m through a new Essential Life Skills programme, while Bradford will receive up to £5m over two years.