Source · Select Committees · Public Accounts Committee
Recommendation 9
9
Rejected
Imperfect free school meals measure limits data and analysis on wider pupil outcomes
Conclusion
Registration for free school meals is not automatic and some low– income pupils will be missed due to eligibility criteria. This means it is imperfect as a measure of disadvantage. The Department stressed the importance of using wider measures beyond the disadvantage gap index to understand performance. This included considering the proportions of students achieving certain levels across subjects and understanding local differences by bringing together various metrics and school–level data.23 The Department also agreed it should consider wider outcomes such as progression into work and wellbeing, alongside academic attainment. It recognises it is not performing as strongly across these areas internationally.24 The Department has more limited data and analysis on wider outcomes for disadvantaged children.25 It does not routinely bring measures together to understand and monitor the impacts of interventions and tailor its approach.26 The basis for funding decisions
Government Response Summary
The government disagrees with the Committee's conclusion, stating that the Department for Education strongly agrees too many children are held back by their background, and reiterates its commitment to the Opportunity Mission.
Government Response
Rejected
HM Government
Rejected
1.1 The government disagrees with the Committee’s recommendation. 1.2 The Department for Education strongly agrees too many children are held back by their background, with gaps between disadvantaged children and their peers opening early and widening throughout education. These gaps are not acceptable. The department is the lead department for the government’s Opportunity Mission, an ambitious, long-term and cross- governmental mission to break the link between a young person’s background and future success. This mission underpins the department’s work, including to help every child to achieve and thrive at school, and has a specific focus on improving outcomes for disadvantaged children.