Free School Meals & Pupil Premium

Dear Parent or Carer,

We are writing to let you know about changes to free school meals (FSM) from the start of the 2026 to 2027 academic year.

What is changing?

Expanded entitlement for families on Universal Credit

From the start of academic year 2026 to 2027, all children in households receiving Universal Credit will be entitled to free school meals, regardless of earnings.

Going forward, there will be two types of eligibility:

• Targeted FSM: for households in receipt of universal credit earning £7,400 or less (includes free meals and additional support such as pupil premium).  Other educational entitlements such as the Holiday Activities and Food program (HAF) and the ‘extended rights’ element of school travel assistance, will also continue to be based on targeted FSM.

• Expanded FSM: for households in receipt of universal credit earning above £7,400 (free meals only).  Families with no recourse to public funds may also be eligible for Targeted FSM subject to meeting separate criteria.  

End of transitional protections

Since 2018, some children have continued to receive free school meals, even if their family circumstances changed during the rollout of Universal Credit. This is referred to as transitional protections.  Now that entitlement is being expanded to all families on Universal Credit, these protections will end at the end of the 2025 to 2026 academic year.

This means:

• Some children may no longer be eligible from the start of the 2026 to 2027 academic year if their family does not receive Universal Credit or another qualifying benefit

• Eligibility will now be based on current benefit status

What you need to do

If your child currently receives free school meals:

• We encourage everyone to reapply from now on as this is something you will need to do on an annual basis.

• In some cases, your child’s school or the local authority may contact you to confirm your details

• If you are unsure, please contact your local authority for advice.

If your child does not currently receive free school meals

• You may now be eligible under the expanded criteria

• You will need to apply through your local authority / school

Please follow this link and enter your details.  https://fsm.lgfl.net

Not sure?

If you are unsure whether you need to/can apply or if your circumstances have changed, please complete the link above for an instant decision.

Yours sincerely,

Mr AJ Skinner
Assistant Headteacher & Deputy DSL

Returning to school, starting a new school or starting something new

A reminder that returning to school, starting at a new school or starting something new, can evoke a range of feelings.

You might feel excited, nervous, worried, or unsure—and all of these feelings are valid and normal.

Here are some ways to support your wellbeing during the first few weeks:

•  You don't have to settle in or make lots of friends immediately.
•  Regular sleep, meals, exercise, and time to relax can help you feel more prepared.
•  Take opportunities to meet new people, participate in activities and become involved in the wider school community.
•  Set realistic goals, organise your workload and avoid leaving tasks until the last minute. Remember that asking for academic support is perfectly acceptable.
•  Maintaining a balance between your studies, social life, hobbies and time to relax is important for your overall wellbeing.
•  Starting back after a long break or starting somewhere new can be challenging and take time. It's okay to make mistakes or feel nervous. Avoid comparing your progress or experiences with those of others.
•  Familiarise yourself with the support available at school, such as your tutor, DOS, safeguarding staff.
•  Preparing your bag, knowing your timetable, and planning your journey can reduce unnecessary stress.
•  Share your worries with a parent/carer, teacher, friend, or another trusted adult.

Adjusting to a new school or returning after a break takes time. Prioritising your wellbeing and seeking support when you need it can help you feel more confident, settled and prepared for the year ahead.

Mrs Westergaard, Wellbeing Team

Please click on the link here to access all our Wellbeing Weekly updates.