Disadvantage in education
Explore the governing board's role in tackling educational disadvantage.

Disadvantage in education is consistently reported as one of the biggest challenges that schools and trusts face. Having a clearÌýfocus on meeting the needs of disadvantaged pupils, who may need additional support to fulfil their potential, is fundamental toÌýraising standards for all pupils in yourÌýschool/trust.
°ÅÀÖÊÓÆµÏÂÔØapp encourages governing boards to move beyond viewing eligibility for the pupil premium as the only indicator of disadvantage. We have established five broad drivers of disadvantage:
- Poverty
- Special educational needs and disabilities (SEND)
- Vulnerability (including looked after children and young carers)
- Certain ethnic groups
- MentalÌýhealth and wellbeing
OurÌýWidening the lensÌýon disadvantageÌýguidance is designed to help governing boardsÌýexplore what disadvantage means inÌýtheir context and to identify pupil groups whoÌýmay need additional support. ItÌýforms an introduction to °ÅÀÖÊÓÆµÏÂÔØapp's series of toolkits for tackling disadvantage in education.
Toolkits to help you tackle disadvantage
Our toolkits are designed to help governing boards focus on the drivers that impact pupils in their school/trust. Each toolkit identifies the link to educational disadvantage and
signposts relevant evidence, guidance, and resources.
Widening the lens webinar
OurÌýDisadvantage: widening the lens webinar explores the challenges faced by pupils with SEND and those living in poverty. Watch the webinar to learn more about the crucial role governing boards play in breaking down barriers to learning.
