Universal Free School Meals

School Meals: What You Need to Know

We want to make sure every child at our school stays fuelled and ready to learn. There are two different schemes available to help with the cost of school lunches, and it’s easy to get them confused. Here is a quick breakdown of how they work and why they matter.
 
1. Universal Infant Free School Meals (UIFSM)

Who it’s for: All children in Reception, Year 1, and Year 2.
How it works: This is a government initiative that provides a free hot lunch to every child in Key Stage 1, regardless of your family’s income. There are no forms to fill out to receive the meal itself—your child can simply get stuck in!
 
2. Free School Meals (FSM)

Who it’s for: Children whose parents or carers receive certain benefits (such as Universal Credit or Income Support).
How it works: This is a means-tested benefit. Unlike the "Universal" scheme above, this stays with your child as they move into Year 3 and beyond.

Why should I apply for FSM if my child is already getting a free "Universal" meal?

If your child is in Reception or Key Stage 1, they are already eating for free. However, it is still vital that you check your eligibility for Free School Meals.
If you are eligible and you register, our school receives extra funding called Pupil Premium. This extra money is used specifically to support your child’s learning, providing things like:

Extra teaching assistants and 1-on-1 support.
Subsidised school trips and clubs.
Additional learning resources and equipment.

By registering, you aren't just securing potential future meals; you are unlocking extra funding that directly benefits your child’s education right now.

How to check:

Checking is quick, confidential, and can be done online. Even if you aren't sure, it is always worth a look! Click this link to check now.