Important Information About Free School Meals Jun 26

Dear Parent/Carer,

We want to make sure every family in our school community receives the support they are entitled to. Many parents are unaware that they may qualify for Free School Meals (FSM) under the new Expanded or Targeted schemes - even if their child already receives a free meal in Reception, Year 1 or Year 2.

Applying takes only a few minutes and could make a real difference to your family and to our school.

Understanding the Three Types of Free School Meals

1. Universal Free School Meals (Reception to Year 2)

All children in Reception, Year 1 and Year 2 automatically receive a free school meal, regardless of household income. However, this is not based on benefits, and you may still need to apply if you meet the criteria for Expanded or Targeted FSM. This helps the school receive additional funding (Pupil Premium) to support your child’s learning.

2. Targeted Free School Meals (Reception to Year 6)

Your child may qualify for Targeted FSM if you receive any of the following:

  • Universal Credit (with net earnings below £616.67 per month)

  • Income Support

  • Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance

  • Income-related Employment and Support Allowance

  • Support under Part VI of the Immigration and Asylum Act 1999

  • Guaranteed element of State Pension Credit

  • Child Tax Credit (without Working Tax Credit, and income below £16,190)

  • Working Tax Credit run-on (paid for 4 weeks after you stop qualifying)

3. Expanded Free School Meals (Reception to Year 6)

The government has widened eligibility so that more families can receive support.

  • Pupils from households receiving Universal Credit who do not meet the Targeted threshold.

If this applies, your child will now be entitled to receive free school meals.

Even if your child is in Reception, Year 1 or Year 2 and already receives a Universal free meal, applying for Targeted FSM ensures the school receives extra funding to support your child.

How to Apply

Applying is quick, confidential, and can be done online.

Apply here through Dudley Council

You will receive a decision quickly, and the school will be notified automatically.

Why Your Application Matters

  • Your child receives a healthy, nutritious meal every day

  • You could save hundreds of pounds each year

  • The school receives extra funding to support your child’s education

  • Your child may gain access to additional support programmes

We strongly encourage all eligible families to apply. If you need help completing the application, please contact the school office, we are happy to support you.

Yours sincerely

Mrs D Williams
School Business Manager

Viren Patel