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A new report from the National Federation for Education Research (NFER) has exposed the shocking scale of child poverty in England. The NFER surveyed senior leaders and teachers at state funded primary and secondary schools, and the results were staggering:
- 90 per cent of all schools were found to be providing uniforms and clothing to pupils
- 70 per cent of schools were found to be providing food through parcels, food banks, food vouchers or subsidised breakfasts.
- 84 per cent of senior school leaders report that the cost of living crisis has increased the numbers of pupils requiring additional support and the level of need they have.
- More than a quarter of pupils in mainstream school require additional support for mental health and wellbeing.
- 80 per cent of school leaders agree that cost of living pressures have increased safeguarding concerns and/or incidents in their schools.
- More than three fifths of mainstream school leaders report that 50 per cent or more of pupils receiving additional support are not eligible for pupil premium (a scheme that provides additional funding for disadvantaged pupils).
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