Part of castle school education trust

"Castle School Education Trust is committed to high quality education across the primary, secondary and sixth form key stages. Our schools cover the South Gloucestershire area. We encourage independence within each school within a strong framework of values."

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Downend

To report a child's absence for years 7-11 please email dow-studentabsence@cset.co.uk or call 01454 862395.  For 6th Form please call 01454 862333.  

Pupil Premium

The Pupil Premium was introduced in April 2011. It is a sum of money the school receives for each student who is either in receipt of Free School Meals (FSM) or who have been in receipt of them in the past 6 years. We also receive money to support students from service families and those who are looked after outside of their families.   

The Department for Education recommends that a Pupil Premium Strategy covers a period of 3 years. Our Pupil Premium Strategy Statement is available  below.

 

Pupil Premium STRATEGY Information

Downend Disadvantaged Strategy 24-27

FREE SCHOOL MEALS

Your child may be able to get free school meals if you get any of the following:

  • Income Support
  • income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance
  • income-related Employment and Support Allowance
  • support under Part VI of the Immigration and Asylum Act 1999
  • the guaranteed element of Pension Credit
  • Child Tax Credit (provided you’re not also entitled to Working Tax Credit and have an annual gross income of no more than £16,190)
  • Working Tax Credit run-on - paid for 4 weeks after you stop qualifying for Working Tax Credit
  • Universal Credit - if you apply on or after 1 April 2018 your household income must be less than £7,400 a year (after tax and not including any benefits you get)

Children who get paid these benefits directly, instead of through a parent or guardian, can also get free school meals.

 

You can complete the application form on-line at www.southglos.gov.uk/advice-and-benefits/benefits/free-school-meals. If you would like a paper copy of the application form you can telephone the Children & Young People Information Service on 01454 868008.

For every child that is entitled to free school meals the school receives extra funding to enhance our provision so please apply even if you do not wish to take up your free school meal. If you would like any support completing your application form please do not hesitate to contact us.