Since September 2014 all children in EYFS, Year 1 and Year 2 are automatically entitled to a free school meal at lunchtime, through Government funding, Universal Infant Free School Meals (UIFSM).  

Children qualify for free school meals (FSM) – and accordingly pupil premium – if you receive any of the following benefits:

• Universal credit (if you apply on or after 2018 your household income must be £7,400 a year (after tax and not including any benefits you get)
• Income-related Employment and Support allowance
• Support under Part IV of the Immigration and Asylum Act 1999
• The guaranteed element of Pension Credit

Children who get paid these benefits directly, instead of through a parent or guardian, can also get free school meals.

Your child may also get free school meals if you get any of these benefits and your child is both:

• Younger than the compulsory age for starting school
• In full-time education

From the start of academic year 2026 to 2027, your child will qualify for free school meals if you get Universal Credit, regardless of household income.

If you do not qualify for most benefits (also known as having ‘no recourse to public funds’), your child may still be eligible for free school meals. Ask their school or local authority whether they’re eligible.

Parents who have applied before should also register. You can do this directly or we can do this on your behalf.

The system is quick and simple and gives you confirmation on whether you are eligible or not at the end of the process. If you qualify, you will receive a reference number that you  simply bring in and show us at school to start receiving meals. Meals are booked by parents/carers via SchoolGrid. 

To register yourself please go to https://www.cloudforedu.org.uk/ofsm/sims 

If you have any queries please do not hesitate to contact Mrs Carey in the school office