THE gap in achievement between children eligible for free school meals and their peers is almost a quarter, it’s been revealed.

According to council figures, 23.5% fewer children eligible for the government scheme achieved the “expected standard” than their peers at the end of key stage two across Wirral schools last year.

While the council said that figure has improved year on year, Susan Talbot, lead commissioner for schools, said this week the situation was one the authority was “very, very conscious of”.

A report discussed by the council’s children and families overview and scrutiny committee on Tuesday said the figure for the 2017/18 was 1.5% below the previous year’s.

Addressing the committee, Ms Talbot said: “We are turning the tide on that. We are now narrowing the gap. It’s one we are very, very conscious of.

“We are celebrating the small gains we got this year, but it’s a big focus.”

Children eligible for free school meals include those whose parents receive income support, child tax credits or employment and support allowance.