Free School Meal Changes from September 2026

From September 2026, the Government has widened the eligibility criteria for Free School Meals. As a result, children from families receiving Universal Credit may now qualify, provided they meet the required eligibility criteria.

To receive this entitlement, parents and carers must complete an annual eligibility check. This allows the school to confirm your child's entitlement and ensures our records remain up to date.

Why It Is Important to Apply

Even if your child currently receives a free meal through another Government scheme, it is still worthwhile completing an eligibility check.

For some pupils, a successful application enables the school to receive additional Government funding. This funding helps us provide enhanced educational resources, targeted interventions, enrichment opportunities and additional support for eligible children.

Types of Free School Meals

From September 2026, eligible pupils will be placed into one of the following categories.

Targeted Free School Meals

Children who qualify under the Targeted Free School Meals scheme will:

• Receive a free school meal every school day.
• Enable the school to receive Pupil Premium funding.
• Benefit from additional support funded through the Pupil Premium grant.

Expanded Free School Meals

Children who qualify under the Expanded Free School Meals scheme will:

• Receive a free school meal every school day.
• Not generate Pupil Premium funding for the school.

Although both schemes provide the same meal entitlement, only pupils eligible under the Targeted Free School Meals category attract additional funding for the school.

Universal Infant Free School Meals

All children in Reception, Year 1 and Year 2 continue to receive a free school meal through the Universal Infant Free School Meals (UIFSM) programme, regardless of household income.

However, if you receive Universal Credit or believe you may be eligible for Targeted Free School Meals, we strongly encourage you to complete an eligibility check. This could enable the school to access additional funding to further support your child's education.

Ordering School Meals

All school meals must be ordered using the Arbor App.

Please remember to:

• Select your child.
• Choose their preferred meal option.
• Book meals before the deadline.

This applies to every pupil, including those receiving Free School Meals, and helps us ensure the correct number of meals are prepared each day.

How to Apply

If you think your child may be eligible for Free School Meals, please visit the school office to collect an application form. Once completed, return the form to the office and we will process your application.

If you need any assistance completing the form, a member of the office team will be happy to help.

Further Information

For further information about Free School Meals and eligibility, please visit the following websites:

• Oxfordshire County Council – https://www.oxfordshire.gov.uk/schools/school/school-meals
• LGfL Free School Meals Checker: https://fsm.lgfl.net/app