David Birch argues that engaging families is crucial in making the most effective use of the Pupil Premium Grant, especially in terms of successful transition and progression through the child’s educational journey.

Many children are affected by alcohol misuse but unfortunately, education and understanding of this issue is given a lower priority in schools than for other substance abuse. Suzanne O’Connell describes the importance of protective factors and the role of the school in supporting these students.

The DfE has updated its document ‘Mental health and behaviour in schools’. In light of the growing concern about mental health, John Viner outlines the importance of this document with accompanying templates to help influence school practice.

 A new report identifies attendance as one of the main barriers preventing children in need from improving their educational outcomes. In this article, Suzanne O’Connell considers the implications of the report for attendance practice.

How can professionals support and maintain the good attendance of students attending alternative provision? Victoria Franklin considers the risks and the barriers and suggests ways to overcome them.

Support staff can be left with challenging situations to manage that are beyond their capabilities. In this article, Lawrence Warburton explains how correct supervision can provide effective support and ensure that training and beneficial advice are given.

How can you use your pupil premium money wisely? This is the second article by headteacher Helen Frostick, based on the practice at St. Mary Magdalen’s Catholic Primary School, on how to make effective spending decisions.

Identifying emerging problems as early as possible is much more preferable than leaving them to become engrained. In this article, Dr. Pooky Knightsmith provides some practical advice on the sequence to follow when attendance patterns change.

Attendance officers are often faced with challenges presented by school refusal. In this article, Joanne Sierzega from Central School Attendance and Welfare Services (CSAWS) provides information, advice and guidance on this difficult subject.