Free School Meals have been expanded from September 2026
From September 2026, all children living in households receiving Universal Credit are entitled to Free School Meals, regardless of household earnings. This means that some families who were not previously eligible may now be able to claim.
There are two categories of Free School Meals:
- Targeted Free School Meals – for children living in households receiving Universal Credit with annual household earnings of £7,400 or less. This can also mean that the school receives additional Pupil Premium funding to support your child’s education.
- Expanded Free School Meals – for children living in households receiving Universal Credit with annual household earnings above £7,400. Your child will receive a free school meal, although this category does not attract the same additional Pupil Premium funding.
Who can apply?
Your child may be entitled to Free School Meals if you or your child receive:
- Universal Credit
- Income-related Employment and Support Allowance
- The guaranteed element of Pension Credit
- Support under Part VI of the Immigration and Asylum Act 1999
There are also separate eligibility arrangements for some families who have no recourse to public funds.
If you receive Universal Credit, we strongly encourage you to apply, even if your household earnings are above £7,400. Your child may now be entitled to a free school meal under the expanded scheme.
Why should I apply?
In addition to providing your child with a free, healthy school meal, registering for Targeted Free School Meals can help our school to receive additional funding through the Pupil Premium. This funding is used to support children’s education and help them achieve their full potential.
Children in Reception, Year 1 and Year 2 already receive Universal Infant Free School Meals. However, families who meet the criteria for Targeted Free School Meals should still apply, as this can enable the school to receive additional funding to support your child.
How to apply
Please contact the school office to apply for Free School Meals; we will be happy to support you with the process. Alternatively you can click on the link below to apply on the Wirral website.
Please note that you need to make a claim for Free School Meals. Your eligibility will then be checked and confirmed by the school or local authority.
If your circumstances change, for example your child changes school or you or your partner stop receiving a qualifying benefit, please contact us as soon as possible.