Free School Meals: Who Qualifies and What You Get
Learn how to access free healthy school lunches for your children and how applying can provide extra funding for your child's school.
This scheme provides free, healthy school lunches for children in certain age groups or those living in households receiving specific benefits.
Who it's for
All children in reception, year 1, and year 2 are eligible for these meals. Older children can also qualify if they live in a household that receives certain benefits.
What you get
Your child will receive a healthy school lunch every single school day at no cost to you.
What it costs you
There is no monetary cost to access this scheme. For very young children in reception, year 1, and year 2, the process is often handled automatically. For older children, you will need to submit an application.
The catch to know
Even if your child is already receiving meals automatically through their age, you should still apply if you are on benefits. Applying can unlock extra funding for your child's school, which helps support their overall education and resources.
How to apply
- Check if your child qualifies based on their age or your household benefits.
- If you need to apply, gather your household benefit information.
- Submit your application through the official government portal.