Free School Meal (FSM) Auto Enrolment delivers for Devon

The Free School Meal (FSM) Auto Enrolment Process has started to deliver results for Devon schools ensuring that eligible children receive the support they deserve, while also maximising funding opportunities for schools.

The change to auto enrolment for FSMs in Devon has Identified 1,079 pupils who were entitled to FSM but were not previously receiving it and secured just under £1.5 million in additional pupil premium funding for Devon schools and families.

The move to auto enrolment and achieving the additional £1.5 million for our schools is in large part thanks to the tireless campaigning of Alex Walmsley, Devon Association of Governance (DAG) Board Member and Devon Education Forum (DEF) Vice Chair. His tenacious approach ensured that Devon County Council investigated and then implemented the scheme.

Jack Newton (Deputy Director, Head of Inclusion and Learning) for Devon Local Authority said “This successful collaboration is another example of what we can do when we work together to improve outcomes for our children and young people.”

Would you like to engage with the Local Authority and with government initiatives to make a difference for pupils in Devon? Then consider joining DAG on the Devon Education Forum. DAG is looking for governors and trustees to join its existing members on this important forum. DAG would love to hear from governors and trustees who might consider taking on this additional voluntary role. Meetings are held four times a year on a Wednesday morning and can be attended remotely or in person at County Hall in Exeter. See the DEF page on the county council website for more information.

If you are interested please contact DAG on [email protected] for more information.