Is Your Child Entitled to Free School Meals?
FSM eligibility is was expanded from September 2026 to include all children from households in receipt of Universal Credit regardless of household earnings (see new criteria below).
We would encourage parents/carers to check eligibility so that we can provide your child with a free meal under the new criteria.
It is up to parents/carers to apply for free school meals on behalf of their child.
It is very important that we know who is entitled to free school meals; not only so that we can provide your child with a lunch every day, free of charge, but also because the school may receive additional funding; which we use to support your child’s education and ensure that they reach their full potential.
Apply Now
The only way to find out if we should give your child free school meals is to check eligibility online via the link below:
If you experience any difficulty with this process, please contact the school and we will be pleased to assist you wherever possible.
Qualifying FSM Criteria from September 2026
From the start of the 2026 to 2027 academic year, FSM eligibility has been expanded to all children from households in receipt of Universal Credit regardless of household earnings. Free school meals will be available to pupils in receipt of, or whose parents are in receipt of, one or more of the following benefits:
- Universal Credit
- Support under Part VI of the Immigration and Asylum Act 1999
A pupil is only eligible to receive a free school meal where both:
- A claim for this support has been made
- Their eligibility has been verified by the school where they are enrolled or by the local authority
Households may also be entitled to a meal if they:
- Are in receipt of income-related Employment and Support Allowance
- Receive the guarantee element of Pension Credit
- Meet criteria set out in separate guidance for families with no recourse to public funds
Transitional Protections Ended 31st August 2026
All transitional protections for free school meals ended on 31st August 2026. Pupils must meet the new eligibility criteria for free meals, to continue receiving this provision. Eligibility for free meals will be kept under regular review through annual rechecks.
