TEACHER Andrew Findley is offering free summer school places to disadvantaged children who want to go to grammar school.

He has earmarked spaces at his successful summer school to those in receipt of free school meals who need a boost for the entrance tests.

The head teachers of both Bournemouth School and Bournemouth School for Girls have outlined their intention to admit more pupils from disadvantaged families.

For the last four years Andrew has been helping youngsters at Heatherlands Primary School in Poole realise their potential.

He told the Daily Echo: "I teach pupils from some of the most affluent families in the area who have the benefit of independent schooling and private tutors. The government talks of a more level playing field but, in reality, this is very difficult to achieve with pupils from disadvantaged backgrounds.

"This is not right, so offering free places at my summer school is my attempt to help narrow the gap and enable all bright students, whatever their situation, to have the option of a grammar school education.”

Andrew’s crusade to narrow this gap started when he approached Heatherlands to offer free weekly support to any of their disadvantaged pupils with the potential to apply for grammar school.

The school accepted his offer but, within a few weeks, Heatherlands, a National Support School, recognised the difference his support was making and asked him to expand and develop his role.

"Since starting my work at Heatherlands it has been incredibly rewarding to see pupils, who never would have dreamed of applying for a grammar school place, raising their aspirations, realising their potential, developing their resilience, passing entrance exams and setting their lives on new trajectory" he said.

Heatherlands head Christian Malone added: "At Heatherlands we are committed to raising the aspiration of all children, and in particular those who are disadvantaged. We recognise the importance of giving pupils the best possible academic start in order to prepare them for their next school setting.

"We have been delighted that Mr Findley has been able to help us to support pupils who demonstrate the potential to enter academic streams within Poole secondary schools, including those which are selective."

Summer school places are open to any present Year 5 pupils who are planning to apply for a grammar school place. To apply, contact Andrew Findley on 07950 822801 or email Andrew@mathexcellence.co.uk