Free School Meals
Since the Government's introduction of free school meals for Reception, Year 1 and Year 2, along with the London Mayor’s funding, all children can receive free school meals this year. This is vital support for families in light of the current cost of living pressures, and will ensure that all primary school children can get at least one nutritious meal a day.
Pupil Premium is another strand of funding introduced in 2011. Pupil Premium funding is allocated to schools to work with pupils who have been registered for benefits-linked free school meals at any point in the last six years (known as ‘Ever 6 FSM’). There is a further allocation for children who are Looked After, adopted or children of service personnel. We encourage parents to apply if they think they may be eligible so that their child doesn’t miss out on the extra funding of £1,455 per year, even if they aren’t taking a free meal every day.
How might a child be eligible for FSM or Pupil Premium Funding?
A child may be eligible to receive the Pupil Premium Grant/Free School Meals if the parent receives any of the following
- Income Support
- Income-based Jobseekers Allowance
- Income-related Employment and Support Allowance
- Support under Part VI of the Immigration and Asylum Act 1999
- the guaranteed element of State 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
Children under the compulsory school age who are in full time education may also be able to get Pupil Premium Grant/Free School Meals.
Currently, children eligible for free school meals are also eligible for places at a variety of free clubs during the school holidays.
It is very easy for parents and carers to check whether you're eligible for free school meals. You can apply on line at: https://pps.lgfl.org.uk/ alternatively the school can submit an application on your behalf. Please contact the school office for assistance with applying.