National Tutoring Programme statistics released: where do we go from here?

The National Tutoring Programme (NTP) released its latest statistics today and it’s a story of mixed progress. An additional 655,288 tutoring courses were started by pupils this academic year, bringing the total over 5.3 million since the programme began – an achievement that shouldn’t be overlooked and highlights that it is possible for tutoring to happen at mass scale in the education system. 

Schools opting out?

However the statistics also revealed a concerning drop: a decrease in the number of schools participating in the NTP from 65.7% last year, to just 50.1% today. 

There are no reasons given for this decrease, however two possibilities come to mind for us at Action Tutoring. We know the significant pressure on school budgets and many will have been unable to cover 50% of the costs this year, with the Government decreasing their subsidy to 50% this year from 60% last year and 70% the year before. Indeed many in the sector have warned repeatedly of the struggle for schools to match the subsidy. 

Secondly the announcement that the NTP will end this year may have prompted schools to opt out of engaging, if it wasn’t going to be something they felt they could embed longer term. 

Pupil Premium participation: a more promising outcome

Tutoring for disadvantaged young people has increased slightly, reaching 50.4% this year (up from 47% last year). This still falls short of the programme’s initial target of 65%. With an equal match in participation of Pupil Premium and their wealthier pupils, sadly it is unlikely the NTP will have a significant impact on the academic attainment gap.

At Action Tutoring, nearly 70% of our pupils are eligible for Pupil Premium funding. We know it is possible to engage this cohort in tutoring and that it makes a significant difference to their outcomes.  

Looking ahead

While we recognise the hugely positive value of these pupils receiving this academic support, we know that there are thousands more who are missing out. The attainment gap is now at its widest since 2012. It is the pupils facing disadvantage who suffer the most from the limited engagement in this support. 

The NTP had the potential to be a game-changer in tackling the academic attainment gap. With its funding ending in July, we are calling on the next Government to see sense and commit to funding targeted tuition for disadvantaged pupils. This is a critical opportunity to level the playing field and close the achievement gap.

Action Tutoring: committed to making a difference

At Action Tutoring we are relentlessly focussed on supporting those who need it most. We have a decade of evidence to show that we are making a difference. Our fundraising efforts have ramped up this year to ensure we can heavily subsidise our programmes next academic year. We will keep costs as low as possible for schools, whilst not compromising on quality.

The need for effective interventions to tackle the attainment gap is significant. We are calling for support to ensure all pupils have the chance to succeed, regardless of their background.

Employees tackle south coast fundraising challenges!

Showing true team spirit, three exceptional Action Tutoring employees have gone the extra mile for fundraising. Stepping outside their everyday role, Alice, Louisa and Stuart all completed sponsored runs to raise vital funds. Testing their physical resilience, their inspiring efforts support our ongoing mission of closing the education attainment gap.

Read on to find out why they laced up their shoes and kept going to support pupils from disadvantaged backgrounds. 

Braving the Brighton Half Marathon

Alice, our former engagement coordinator, daringly achieved her goals at February’s Brighton Half Marathon. She took Brighton’s infamous winds in her stride, sailing through her challenge on the electric seafront.

“My energy matched the event’s atmosphere. Music blasted everywhere and crowds constantly cheered you on!”

Alice

Alice says while initially feeling daunted by the physical challenge, she soon enjoyed her training runs. All her efforts paid off on the day when she had that runners high!

“I really enjoyed pushing beyond my comfort zone. I find running is great at testing both your physical and mental strength. That post-run feeling is always amazing!”

Alice

Alice worked brilliantly on both her training plan and her fundraising too. She raised an incredible amount of £305, with an additional £60 in Gift Aid!

“The most rewarding part for me was fundraising. Seeing every lovely supportive message was such a joy. It made all those practice runs seem worthwhile.”

Alice

Taking on the Brighton 10k

Staying with Brighton, one of our Sussex programme coordinators, Louisa, ran April’s exciting Brighton 10K (BM10K). Brighton’s blustery weather returned, but Louisa battled through to enjoy a great day running for our charity.

“Was a lovely sunny (albeit windy!) day and I was delighted to get my sub hour target! This was my first time completing something like this and I was surprised how much I enjoyed it! “

Louisa

Louisa found having this race as an aspirational goal kept her motivated and active across the colder months.

“It was so helpful having a target during winter. It helped to force me to leave the house and stay active.”

Louisa

Considering a similar challenge for Action Tutoring? Louisa says our staff brilliantly supported her fundraising journey, providing resources and tips to help her reach the target. Louisa raised an incredible £400, rising to £493.75 with Gift Aid!

Southampton 10k success!

Finally, our communications officer, Stuart, boldly took on the Southampton 10K. Race day saw few clouds as crowds offered banners and powerful cheering to energise runners.

“The crowds were incredible and gave lovely support. The kids also had very engaging power up and tap for a boost banners which were fun and motivational.”

Stuart

Stuart soon released early race nerves, finding a calm flow. Enjoying a rewarding experience, Stuart raised an amazing £105.00 plus £26.25 in Gift Aid.

“Fundraising for Action Tutoring and making a difference to the lives and learning of pupils from disadvantaged backgrounds is fantastic.”

Stuart

For future budding fundraisers out there, Stuart recommends doing something you naturally enjoy. 

“I’d suggest thinking carefully about which challenge will bring out the best in you. This may empower you to complete it and enjoy it better. “

Stuart

Get involved to help us tackle education inequality!

Feeling inspired by Alice, Louisa, and Stuart’s extraordinary achievements?
We have several charity spaces available at summer sporting events. Find a full events list on our fundraising page. Alternatively, email our fundraising coordinator, Molly, via molly.cottrill@actiontutoring.org.uk for more events information. You can also contact Molly if you’re considering taking on your own challenge, sports based or not!

Supporting our work

Join our mission to transform the lives of pupils from disadvantaged backgrounds. You can contribute to their brighter future, including: 

• Volunteering for just one hour a week
• Donating to our work
• Spreading the word as an advocate

Together, we can cross the finish line of opportunity and bring lasting difference to every pupil.