Disadvantaged students: DfE to work with private schools

It comes as the government published its response to the Schools That Work for Everyone consultation.

The DfE has set-up a “dedicated unit” to work with universities and independent schools to “develop and strengthen partnerships with state schools to help raise attainment and aspiration for all pupils”.

ISC schools spent around £385 million in 2017 on means-tested bursaries and scholarships for disadvantaged children. The joint understanding states: “ISC schools will be encouraged to target bursary support at those on the lowest incomes as well as looked after children, to increase opportunities for these children and to support social mobility.”

The understanding adds: “The DfE will encourage the state sector to participate in partnership activities, developing a range of partnership options, helping to overcome barriers. This will include the DfE providing support in matching independent and state sector schools based on need and expertise so that they can develop partnership working.”