Schools’ high aspirations help tackle effects of poverty and disadvantage

Jassa Scott, Strategic Director, says,

Some pupils face emotional, social and developmental barriers to learning while others are disadvantaged by financial and social hardships at home.

The most effective schools do not just focus on the challenges these pupils experience, but identify individual interests and talents, and build on these positives. Research shows that out of all education factors, classroom teaching has the greatest influence on pupils’ learning. Pupils from disadvantaged backgrounds benefit even more than their peers from high-quality teaching.

Today’s report contains examples from many different schools across Wales whose work has had a positive impact on supporting vulnerable and disadvantaged learners.

Highlighted in the report is the caring environment at Herbert Thompson Primary in Cardiff which has brought a widespread positive impact. Here, every pupil is reminded daily that they are ‘loved, strong, important and special’. Teachers have seen improved relationships between staff and pupils, a reduction in negative incidents and pupils are focused on achieving their full potential.

Today’s report, ‘Effective school support for disadvantaged and vulnerable pupils’ recommends that all schools consider the best practice outlined in its case studies to help them increase the impact of funding and tackle concerns with attendance and achievement.