This is because the formula uses wider area - based measures of deprivation and increases funding for pupils with lower prior attainment, regardless of their social background. (schoolsweek.co.uk)
As more pupils with lower prior attainment took the subjects it was expected the proportion of passes would decrease — and it did. (schoolsweek.co.uk)
The researchers found that, on average, academy chains do better for their disadvantaged pupils with low prior attainment. (educationbusinessuk.net)