Free School Meals - Changes from September 2026

From September 2026, more children will be entitled to Free School Meals (FSM) through Universal Credit.

There will be two categories:

Targeted Free School Meals
For families receiving Universal Credit with annual household earnings of £7,400 or less. Children in this group may also be entitled to additional support, such as home-to-school transport assistance where applicable.

Expanded Free School Meals
For families receiving Universal Credit with annual household earnings of more than £7,400. Children in this group will receive a free school meal each day.

If your child currently receives Free School Meals, their eligibility may be reviewed before September 2026, as transitional protections are due to end in July 2026.

Free School Meals are not awarded automatically. Families must apply and eligibility must be confirmed. If you think your child may be eligible, please contact the school office for advice and support