Free School Meals (FSM) & Pupil Premium
Schools receive additional funding through the Pupil Premium grant, which is linked to the number of students eligible for Free School Meals (FSM). Registering your child not only provides support for your family, but also helps the school access valuable funding to enhance learning, resources, and opportunities for all students.
Why Apply for Free School Meals?
Even if you feel you may not need the meals themselves, registering is still very important:
- The school receives additional funding to support your child’s education
- It can save families approximately £350 per year
- Eligibility can unlock access to other support and opportunities
Despite this, many families who are eligible do not apply. Nationally, an estimated 300,000 children miss out on this entitlement.
Discretion and Privacy
We understand that some families may worry about their child being identified. Please be reassured:
- Our school uses a cashless payment system
- All students pay using the same card system
- FSM funds are added automatically and cannot be distinguished from other payments
This ensures that students receiving Free School Meals are completely anonymous.
Update for September 2026
From September 2026, eligibility for Free School Meals is expanding:
- All families receiving Universal Credit will now qualify
- The previous earnings threshold has been removed under the
Children’s Wellbeing and Schools Act 2026 - This applies from the 2026/27 academic year
Important:
Families will still need to apply to receive Free School Meals, and transitional protections in place up to the end of the 2025/26 academic year have now ended.
How to Apply
Applying is quick and straightforward:
- Use the ‘Apply’ button on this page
- Complete the short online form (takes just a few minutes)
Alternatively, you can contact Student Services, and we will be happy to help or complete the application on your behalf.
Please Register – Even If It’s Short-Term
If you believe you may be eligible — even for a short time — we strongly encourage you to apply.
Registering ensures:
- Your child can access available support
- The school receives additional funding to benefit all students
