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Funding is helping break down barriers in schools
Children and young people across North Ayrshire are benefiting from targeted support to help them succeed in school thanks to more than £4 million of Pupil Equity Funding (PEF).
A report considered by Cabinet on Tuesday (September 1) highlighted how schools are using the Scottish Government funding to improve literacy, numeracy, attendance, health and wellbeing, while reducing the impact of poverty.
The funding supports a wide range of initiatives including additional teaching and support staff, targeted interventions, nurture programmes, breakfast clubs, family learning activities and support with the cost of the school day.
Around £4.2million of Pupil Equity Funding was invested during the 2025/26 academic year with a similar amount to be invested in the coming school year.
The report for Cabinet shows positive outcomes are being achieved across North Ayrshire schools, with improvements in attainment, attendance, engagement and participation. For example, at Greenwood Academy in Dreghorn, targeted interventions helped increase S1 literacy attainment from 72% to 96% and numeracy attainment from 76% to 96%, while attendance also improved and exclusions reduced.
Other schools have reported similar successes. For example, Pennyburn Primary School in Kilwinning has seen reading attainment increase by 20% over four years, while targeted wellbeing support at Springside Primary School in Irvine has helped pupils build confidence, resilience and readiness to learn.
North Ayrshire's approach has also received national recognition, with Greenwood Academy, Cumbrae Primary School and St Matthew's Academy selected by the Scottish Government as examples of effective and innovative use of Pupil Equity Funding to support learners impacted by poverty.
Quote: Pupil Equity Funding continues to make a real difference for children and young people across North Ayrshire. Schools are using this funding creatively and effectively to remove barriers to learning, support wellbeing and help pupils achieve their full potential. The positive outcomes highlighted in this report demonstrate the impact targeted support can have on attainment, attendance, confidence and participation. We remain committed to ensuring every child has the opportunity to succeed, regardless of their circumstances.
Quote from: Councillor Jean McClung, Cabinet Member for Education and Young People
The Council will continue to work with schools and Education Scotland during 2026/27 to build on successful approaches and ensure Pupil Equity Funding continues to support learners most affected by poverty.
Published: 02 September 2026