Action Required: Free School Meal changes

Dear Parents and Carers,

We are writing to share some positive news regarding national changes to the Free School Meals (FSM) program that will take effect from September 2026.

The government has expanded the eligibility criteria, meaning many more families will now qualify for free school meals. Most notably, from September, all children whose families receive Universal Credit will be entitled to free school meals, regardless of household income.

What is changing?

From September 2026, the Free School Meals program will look a little different. For secondary schools, it will now be divided into two groups:

• Expanded Free School Meals (New): All children in Key Stage 2 and above (Year 3 and upwards) whose families receive Universal Credit are now eligible.
• Targeted Free School Meals: This is for families with an earned household income under £7,400. (Qualifying for this group also unlocks vital extra funding for our school, known as the Pupil Premium, which goes directly toward supporting your child’s education).

Why is this urgent?

• To ensure that all eligible children are registered and can receive their meals smoothly at the start of the new school year, the government requires us to perform a new eligibility check now.
• Because the previous "transitional protections" are ending this July, all families including those whose children currently receive free school meals must be checked under the new system.
• Once approved, your child’s eligibility is locked in and guaranteed for the entire 2026/27 school year.

What do families need to do?

• We are asking all families who have previously had FSM and families who receive Universal Credit (or think they may now qualify for UC) to take two minutes to provide some information.
• Please complete the FSM Eligibility Form by Wednesday 24^th June 2026.
• Please be reassured that the system is confidential and that children’s FSM status is not highlighted publicly.

Thank you for your prompt cooperation. Your support helps us ensure that no child misses out on a meal and that our school receives the correct funding to support all children. If you have any questions or need assistance filling out the form, please do not hesitate to contact the school office