Registration for free school meals is not automatic and some low– income pupils will be missed due to eligibility criteria. This means it is imperfect as a measure of disadvantage. The Department stressed the importance of using wider measures beyond the disadvantage gap index to understand performance. This included considering the proportions of students achieving certain levels across subjects and understanding local differences by bringing together various metrics and school–level data.23 The Department also agreed it should consider wider outcomes such as progression into work and wellbeing, alongside academic attainment. It recognises it is not performing as strongly across these areas internationally.24 The Department has more limited data and analysis on wider outcomes for disadvantaged children.25 It does not routinely bring measures together to understand and monitor the impacts of interventions and tailor its approach.26 The basis for funding decisions