Free School Meals for Reception, Year 1 and Year 2
All children in Reception, Year 1 and Year 2 automatically receive free school meals, regardless of family income. This is called Universal Infant Free School Meals (UIFSM) and is funded by the government.
There is no need to apply for these free meals — they are provided for every child in these year groups.
You can find out more about Universal Infant Free School Meals on the DfE website.
Free School Meals and Pupil Premium for Year 3 and Above
Once your child moves into Year 3 and above, free school meals are no longer automatic. However, if your family is on a low income or you receive certain benefits, your child may still qualify for Free School Meals and the school can receive Pupil Premium funding to help support your child’s education.
This extra funding helps us provide additional support, resources and opportunities to help your child do their very best at school. We consult with parents, teachers and children to decide how to spend this funding to support your child.
If you qualify, your child will receive free school meals and you may also be eligible for help with the cost of school trips, including residentials.
You can find out more about Pupil Premium on the DfE website.
Who Can Apply?
You can apply for Free School Meals and Pupil Premium funding if you receive any of the following:
- Income Support
- Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance
- Income-related Employment and Support Allowance
- Support under Part VI of the Immigration and Asylum Act 1999
- The Guarantee element of State Pension Credit
- Child Tax Credit (as long as you are not entitled to Working Tax Credit and your annual income is £16,190 or below)
- Working Tax Credit ‘run-on’ (a payment you may receive for 4 weeks after you stop qualifying for Working Tax Credit)
Please note: If you are currently receiving Working Tax Credit, you are not eligible for Free School Meals.
How to Apply
It’s quick and easy to apply for Free School Meals and Pupil Premium funding. You can:
- Contact Mrs Broadbent or Mrs Ridley in the school office — they’ll be happy to guide you through the process.
- Apply online via your local authority’s website.
For families living in Oxfordshire, you can apply directly on the Oxfordshire County Council website.
If your child qualifies, they’ll receive a free, healthy lunch every day, saving your family around £350 per year (for children in Years 3-6).
Even if you don’t want your child to have a school meal, we strongly encourage you to register if you’re eligible. Registering means the school receives additional funding to support your child with extra opportunities, resources, and targeted support.
Confidentiality
Registering for Free School Meals is completely confidential. Other parents and pupils will not know your child receives free school meals, and it will not affect any other benefits you receive.
If you would like any help or advice about Free School Meals or Pupil Premium, please contact the school office — we are happy to help.
