Stephen McPartland MP is urging local schools to apply for Pupil Premium Awards of up to £10,000.  These awards are available for schools that have done the most to boost the attainment of their disadvantaged pupils.

Stephen said, "Every young person deserves the chance to benefit from a good education and it is especially important that poorer pupils have access to transforming educational opportunities. The Pupil Premium Awards provide direct recognition to schools that are doing the best for disadvantaged pupils and I am sure that our local schools are amongst the best."

The 2013 Pupil Premium Awards will celebrate the successes of schools throughout England that can demonstrate objectively how they have used the Pupil Premium to achieve a measurable advance in the attainment of their disadvantaged pupils (defined as those entitled to free school meals, or pupils who have been in public care for six months or more).

The best schools in every English region will gain recognition, and regional winners will be invited to a reception in London, where the overall prizes will be announced. Judging will be by an independent panel of education experts.

Closing date for entries is 17 April, and the final will be held on 26 June.

The 2013 Pupil Premium Awards are being delivered in partnership with TES: further details and applications are available on the Pupil Premium Awards website.