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Applying for Free School Meals

There are currently two types of Government funding available to schools which help cover the cost of free school meals:

  • Universal Free School Meal funding
  • Free School Meals/Pupil Premium funding (benefit based)

Universal Free School meals funding explained

All children in Reception Class and Years 1 and 2 are entitled to receive a free school meal, regardless of a parent’s financial status, through the Government Universal Free School meal funding scheme.

Free School Meals/Pupil Premium funding explained

Children whose parents are receiving one of the welfare benefits listed below may be entitled to continue to receive a free school meal when they move up to Key Stage 2 (Years 3 to 6):

  • Income Support
  • income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance
  • income-related Employment and Support Allowance
  • support under Part VI of the Immigration and Asylum Act 1999
  • the guaranteed element of Pension Credit
  • Child Tax Credit (provided you’re not also entitled to Working Tax Credit and have an annual gross income of no more than £16,190)
  • Working Tax Credit run-on - paid for 4 weeks after you stop qualifying for Working Tax Credit
  • Universal Credit - if you apply on or after 1 April 2018 your household income must be less than £7,400 a year (after tax and not including any benefits you get)

If children are eligible, the school receives additional funding called Pupil Premium.

Pupil Premium/Free School Meal funding is extra money the Government provides to the school to cover the cost of a school meal and help pay for valuable support such as extra tuition, educational resources or access to after school activities.

What is your child entitled to?

It is easy to find out what kind of funding your child is entitled to. Simply register your details using the following link:

If you have any problems using this service, please come to the school office for assistance.

Alternatively, the school can check for you. If you prefer this option, please download the form at the bottom of this page, fill in your details and return the completed form to the school office.

Should I register for free school meals even if my child isn’t in Key Stage 2 (Years 3–6) yet?

Yes! If you receive any of the benefits listed above, it is really important to register for free school meals so that we can ensure the school receives the full amount of Pupil Premium funding for your child. Registering before your child reaches Key Stage 2 will also ensure they continue to receive free school meals when they move up through the school.