I would encourage schools to engage with the National Tutoring Programme to support those whose education has been most impacted by the pandemic. We must do whatever we can to help disadvantaged students catch up on lost learning and help them realise their potential.
“Ensuring all disadvantaged pupils can benefit is key for me”
It is clear that whilst all students have lost some learning, we need to reach those whose education has been disrupted the most by the pandemic. Tutoring can have a positive impact on pupils’ academic progress and schools can access tuition which best fits the needs of their pupils. It is important, regardless of education setting, that pupils can access tutoring. State-maintained primary and secondary schools can register for the programme. Tuition can also be delivered in specialist settings as well as supporting pupils with additional needs including SEND, in mainstream settings.
“I think it’s a flexible solution for schools”
Whether it be through an Academic Mentor, a tutor supplied through a Tution Partner or schools using their own staff to support students through a government grant, the programme has a range of options that schools can choose from. Schools can also identify which subjects pupils would most benefit from, whether tuition will take place before, during or after the school day and if it is provided online or face to face.
“I know the programme can play a pivotal role in reducing the attainment gap between pupils from disadvantaged backgrounds and their classmates”
I think any school improvement plan has to have a range of strategies to maximise the outcomes for all learners in schools. The National Tutoring Programme has a useful role to play in boosting outcomes, especially for disadvantaged learners.
“I’ve seen the positive impact of the programme in schools”
Schools that have engaged with the NTP are telling us that they are grateful for the opportunity to support those students they have identified who have fallen the most behind. These pupils value the encouragement one-to-one and small group tuition has provided and have benefited from tailored support.
Find out more about how the National Tutoring Programme can support your school.
