The extent to which “Challenge the Gap” interventions impact on the achievement of Pupil Premium pupils in Catholic Primary Schools

This dissertation focuses on an exploration into the extent to which “Challenge the Gap” interventions impact on the achievement of Pupil Premium pupils in Catholic Primary Schools. The research focuses on the following elements: - Biblical and ecclesiological perspectives on the poor - Key Characteristics of Catholic Distinctiveness - Pupil Premium - Challenge the Gap - Leadership Challenges in the context of the Church’s mission to the poor - Research investigating the extent to which “Challenge the Gap” interventions impact on the achievement of Pupil Premium pupils in Catholic Primary Schools through the medium of data analysis on student achievement, interviews with three headteachers and questionnaires to staff involved directly in the delivery of the “Challenge the Gap” programme. Following the literature reviewed, qualitative analysis was carried out in the form of interviews with three primary school head teachers, supported by quantitative analysis in the form of a questionnaire that was completed by teachers and TA’s in three Catholic Primary schools. The research findings were analysed in the light of the literature review and my conclusions were reached based on these. The findings were used to inform recommendations suggested to the leaders of the three Catholic Primary Schools.