Achievement and attainment

Historically, supplementary schools were set up to improve the attainment of pupils from minority ethnic backgrounds and to teach them about their heritage cultures.

In recent years, data from a range of local authorities have shown that attendance at a supplementary school increases attainment and achievement levels at all key stages.

Supplementary schools therefore have a clear contribution to make towards closing the national attainment gap. This is even more significant for the large number of supplementary schools working with statistically underachieving groups of pupils.

In supplementary schools where languages are taught, pupils are encouraged to take GSCE and A-level qualifications – sometimes much earlier than the average age – and they often achieve very high results. This boosts the pupils’ confidence and self-esteem, and helps improve overall secondary phase attainment levels.

Case study

Bristol Mainstreaming Supplementary Schools Project

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