Sheffield primary schools look set to benefit from an additional £11 million this year through the Liberal Democrat Pupil Premium, alongside a massive increase in primary school places.

The pupil premium, which will be worth £10.9 million for primary schools in 2013/14, is targeted to help schools support the most disadvantaged pupils. The funding, which was secured by Liberal Democrats in Government, will rise to £15.7 million for Sheffield primaries in 2014/15.

In addition, Liberal Democrat Schools Minister, David Laws, has announced funding to create an additional 1,927 primary school places in Sheffield, including two new schools.

Cllr Colin Ross, Sheffield Liberal Democrat spokesperson for Education, said:

“Liberal Democrats are committed to building a fairer society and a stronger economy. I’m delighted that Liberal Democrats in Coalition have secured yet more investment through the pupil premium, which is targeted at supporting the most disadvantaged pupils.

“The attainment gap facing the poorest pupils in our city cannot be justified – and this massive investment will give headteachers the freedom to help those children as they see best.

“What’s more the Government have announced even more funding to make sure Sheffield has the number of primary school places it needs for the future.”

Liberal Democrat Schools Minister, David Laws MP, said:

“Liberal Democrats are building a stronger economy and a fairer society – which means making sure every child can get a place at a good school.

“The previous Labour government ignored all the warning signs that extra places would be needed.  We know that this is a huge concern for local parents and are working to clear up Labour’s mess.

“I’m therefore delighted to announce that Sheffield is getting a share of our funding to provide much needed brand new school places.”