Free school meals are so important. Here's why:
- They save you money as the cost of living increases
- They improve children's concentration, ability to learn, and behaviour
- They give children the nutrients they need to grow and develop
- They introduce healthy eating habits at a young age
- They're just really comforting.
On top of this, the school gets extra funding from Government for each child receiving a free school meal. It's a win-win for you, your children, and the school.
If your child is eligible for free school meals, we want to ensure they get them.
Who can get free school meals?
Reception, Year 1 and Year 2
All children in Reception, Year 1 or Year 2 automatically get free school meals through the Universal Infant Free School Meals scheme. There is no need to apply.
Families who receive benefits
Your child could be entitled to a free school meal if you receive any of the following benefits:
- income support
- income based Job Seeker’s Allowance
- income based Employment and Support Allowance
- Child Tax Credit with an annual income of less than £16,190
- the guaranteed element of the State Pension Credit
- the guaranteed element of Pension Credit
- support under Part VI of the Immigration and Asylum Act 1999
- Universal Credit with an annual income of less than £7,400
If you receive benefits and your child is in Reception, Year or Year 2, you should still register for free school meals. This is so we can claim additional funding to support your child at school. This is called Pupil Premium.
If your child is in Year 3 or above, they are only eligible for free school meals if you are entitled to benefits and make an application.
Asylum seekers
If you are receiving National Asylum Seekers Support (NASS), bring your Home Office letter into school and we will ensure your child receives free school meals.
How can we help?
We use an Online Free School Meal service. We just need your consent, and a few personal details, to make the application on your behalf. We only apply once. The system then checks Government websites daily and instantly notifies us on new applications or changes to an existing application.
Please give your consent when we ask for it, to help us access additional Pupil Premium funding to support your child's education.