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English Language and Mathematics: GCSE

Answer

The department has committed £27.7 million this financial year to raise reading standards, including a statutory reading check for pupils in year 8 to help schools provide targeted support.

In 2025/26, the English Hubs programme launched a pilot to support secondary schools with the greatest reading need. From the 2026/27 academic year, this intensive support at key stage 3 will be rolled out across all English Hubs. In January 2026, all schools were given access to Unlocking Reading, a continuing professional development programme.

A national network of 40 maths hubs is supporting schools to improve teaching quality. It aims to improve the teaching of mathematics for all by providing school-to-school support on subject knowledge and pedagogy, supporting teaching quality and workforce recruitment and retention. Maths hub support is prioritised to schools who need it most, including through reference to their attainment.

Through the consultation on KS4 performance measures, we have also proposed extending eligibility for targeted regional improvements for standards and excellence (RISE) support to schools with the very lowest levels of pupil achievement, ensuring they have access to timely support to improve outcomes.

Additionally, in the 2026/27 financial year we will be providing around £3.2 billion of pupil premium funding to improve the outcomes of disadvantaged children. This funding enables schools to put targeted support in place for children, especially those from low income and disadvantaged backgrounds, in line with evidence-based strategies from the Education Endowment Foundation, supporting all young people to achieve and thrive.

Secondary information

Type

Written question

Reference

2550

Session

2026-27

Subjects

Finance English language Schools GCSE Mathematics

Link

View this Written question on www.parliament.uk