Introduction
Free school meals are available for all pupils in Reception, Year 1 and Year 2.
This initiative has been developed with the purpose of aiding child development, supporting academic performance and improving levels of healthy eating.
To find out more about the scheme please visit the School Food Plan website.
What you need to do
You will not need to submit an application as all pupils in Reception, Year 1 and Year 2 will automatically be entitled to the free school meal, although the meal will still need to be ordered from the school.
However, if you are on a low income, we highly recommend that you do still make a free school meals application as it will allow the school to unlock additional funding for your child/children, which will go towards supporting their development.
Menus and meal choices
Your child's school will be working to implement universal infant free school meals for pupils in the relevant year groups. Information regarding the service provision, the meals available and advice on placing orders will be provided via your child's school during the summer term.
Pupil Premium
Every child who applies for free school meals (because they are from a family on a lower income) can unlock up to £1,480 extra funding for their school called Pupil Premium, which must be spent on supporting their development. So, even if your child is in Reception, Year 1 or Year 2 and will automatically get a free meal, please do still make an application. Otherwise, the school will not know that your child is eligible for additional funding.
To find out more, please visit our Pupil Premium page.
Contact the Education Welfare Benefits team
You can contact the Council’s Education Welfare Benefits Team for information about applications for free school meals, or benefits which support children financially while at school or college.
Education Welfare Benefits Team
Box Number: ALC2606
New Shire Hall
Emery Crescent
Enterprise Campus
Alconbury Weald
Huntingdon
PE28 4YE
Email: ewb.fsm@cambridgeshire.gov.uk
Tel: 01223 703 200
