At Rushey Mead Academy, we are committed toe ensuring that all students, regardless of background or circumstance are able to access a high-quality education and achieve their full potential. We recognise that some students face additional barriers to learning, and we work proactively to identify and remove these so that every student can thrive both academically and personally.

Our approach is rooted in the belief that all students should be taught within mainstream classrooms, following the full curriculum alongside their peers. We maintain high expectation for all and provide the support necessary to ensure that disadvantaged students can access learning successfully without reducing challenge or opportunity. Pupil Premium Champions conduct learning walks and ensure that every disadvantaged student in their year group is observed in lessons. They also monitor that key teaching strategies are consistently in place to support students’ progress.

Disadvantaged students are supported through a combination of high-quality teaching, targeted intervention and strong pastoral care. Each year group is supported by a Pupil Premium Champion and Assistant Champions who work closely with students, families and staff to understand the individual needs and ensure that appropriate support is in pace. Students are regularly monitored and support is adapted in response to their progress, engagement and wellbeing.

Academic support is tailored to the individual and may include mentoring, small group work, or subject -specific intervention. Students are supported to develop effective study habits, improve organisation and build confidence in their learning. This includes guidance on revision strategies, help with managing workload, and encouragement to take ownership of their learning and progress. Tutor time sessions regularly focus on key meta cognitive skills in which students are explicitly ‘learning to learn’. Where needed, additional support is provided in key subjects such as English and Maths to help students secure strong outcomes.

We also recognise that practical barriers can impact learning. Students are supported with essential equipment, including stationery, calculators, and, where appropriate, access to Chromebooks. Support is also available with uniform and PE kits ensure that all students feel prepared and included in school life. Increasingly, students are provided with bus passes to travel to and from school following a change in their home placement or where travel costs would otherwise be unaffordable. Homework support is provided through structed sessions where students can complete work in a calm environment with access to resources and staff guidance.

Reading and literacy are a key focus across the school. Disadvantaged students are supported to develop their readings kills needed to access the curriculum, alongside opportunities to read for pleasure. The school library plays an important role in this, providing welcoming space for students to explore a wide range of texts and develop positive reading habits. Pupil premium Champions work with students to engage a culture of reading and book borrowing. Students are regularly gifted books, with our librarian supporting them in making engaging and appropriate choices.

Pastoral care is central to our approach. We understand that wellbeing, attendance and engagement are closely linked to academic success. Students receive regular support through tutors, year teams, and Pupil Premium Champions with additional provisions available where needed This may include wellbeing support and access to wider services. Our Family Support Workers work closely with families to ensure that our support is consistent and responsive.

Beyond the classroom we are committed to ensuring that all students can take part in enrichment opportunities. Disadvantaged students’ participation is actively monitored, and students are encouraged and supported to engage in trips, clubs and wider experiences that build confidence, develop independence and broaden their horizons. These opportunities are an important part of school life and help students to build cultural capital, develop their skills and aspirations for the future.

As students move through the school, they are very well supported in preparing for their next steps. This includes 1:1 guidance on post 16 pathways, support with applications, and opportunities to engage with further education providers and employers. Our aim is to ensure that every student leaves Rushey Mead with the knowledge, skills and confidence to thrive in the next stage of their education or career.

We are proud of the inclusive and supportive environment we provide where no student is defined by their disadvantage. Instead, they are supported, challenged, and empowered to make the most of every opportunity available to them and to achieve their very best.