The recent discussion in the Government’s Public Accounts Committee focused on how best to close the attainment gap for poorer children. A further concern was to ensure that schools can prove that Pupil Premium Payments are genuinely used to close this gap.

Success for All works on all levels to achieve this. Implementation costs can be paid for by Pupil Premium funds because it is an early intervention programme based on over 40 years of research. This is exactly what the Committee explicitly specified as an appropriate use of the funds.

As for impact, well a two year study of fifteen under-performing Primary Schools in the Cardiff and Rhondda Cynon Taff valleys that implemented SFA in 2013 indicates what can be achieved. At the start of 2013 only 29.3% of children in the schools were at the expected level of reading across years 1-6. By July 2015 that had risen to 56%.

Initially, across all schools children were an average of 1.34 years behind in reading. By July 2015 that gap had narrowed to just 0.25 years behind. Two schools have already closed the gap, achieving an average reading age above what is expected and that another year should bring the majority of the remaining schools into that position.

Obviously, only significant accelerated progress could explain these results. Over two years the schools achieved an average of 3.15 years of standard progress in reading. SFA develops writing skills broadly in line with reading, and covers all aspects of literacy, so the improvements have had real impact across all curriculum areas.

SFA works to eliminate underachievement in schools and many children facing lifelong illiteracy are now at the expected level for their age, or have made significant progress. Schools have risen out of Special Measures to gain favourable inspection results. Staff have gained in skill and confidence and know how to help their children reach their potential.

Results of a very large research project hot off the press in the USA have confirmed that SFA improves results for all children, but has a particularly significant impact for those who have poor language skills- typically, those who come from a background of deprivation.

So, if you are wondering how to close the attainment gap in your school and use your Pupil Premium strategically, SFA is worth checking out.