This expands on and is linked to the objectives of the overall Academy Improvement Plan Through an inclusive culture of caring based on our Christian foundation, St Mary’s provides an environment of high expectations in which the learning of all children flourishes. Children are challenged and empowered to be aspirational and to succeed. Our academy fosters commitment for the academic and spiritual development of every child which is linked to the development of responsibility to the wider world.

National Performance data shows that disadvantaged children are half as likely to achieve five A* to C GCSEs including English and Maths as their peers. Pupil Premium funding is allocated to help support children who are known to be eligible for Free School Meals ( or have been at any time over the last 6 years, referred to as Ever 6), children who have been looked after and children of service families.

We aim to use the Pupil Premium funding we receive to ensure that these students make progress at an equal rate to their peers and we know that we must endeavour to close the achievement gaps by helping these students to make accelerated progress.

We strive to ensure that teaching and learning opportunities meet the needs of all pupils and that the needs of socially disadvantaged pupils are assessed and addressed.

Our 2017/18 report on Pupil Premium funding, how we have used it and the impact of our actions, can be accessed below together with information about funding expected for 2018/19

Please follow the link below if you think you are entitled to free meals as it will help us to help you. Your child doesn’t have to to eat the meals although they are both tasty and nutritious.

http://www.kent.gov.uk/education-and-children/schools/free-school-meals