Is your child eligible for free school meals?

If your child has just started school or your financial situation has changed, it’s worth checking if they’re eligible for free school meals. This support not only saves families up to £490 per year per child but ensures children receive a healthy, filling lunch every day. 

School meals comply with School Food Standards, which help ensure children get the energy and nutrition they need across the whole school day. 

Sharing meals together can help children to socialise, make friends, and develop healthy eating habits. 

If your child received free school meals last year, you do not need to reapply. All approved pupils will remain eligible until at least the end of the 2025/26 school year. 

Good for your child 

Daily school meals help children stay focussed, energised and ready to learn. A Department for Education pilot found that having a regular healthy school meal: 

• Improved academic performance in English and Maths 
• Narrowed attainment gaps for low-income families  
• Helped better concentration and behaviour in class.

Check your eligibility and apply here 

Good for schools 

Schools also benefit. For every child approved, they receive extra government funding called the Pupil Premium, worth between £1,075 and £1,515 annually. This helps fund additional teaching staff, tuition, and enrichment activities. 

Extra support for Dorset families 

In Dorset, children eligible for free school meals can access free holiday clubs during the summer, Christmas and Easter school holidays. They’ll also receive holiday food vouchers until at least March 2026. 

Universal infant free school meals 

All children in Reception, Year 1, and Year 2 automatically receive free school meals. However, if you receive qualifying benefits, it’s still important to apply. This ensures your child can access additional support like holiday activities and vouchers, and their school receives Pupil Premium funding. 

Cllr Clare Sutton, Cabinet Member for Children’s Services, Education & Skills, said: 

“School dinners support children’s physical development, concentration and emotional wellbeing - vital for success in and out of the classroom. 

“If you receive benefits, please use our quick and confidential checker to see if your child qualifies. They’ll also gain access to free holiday clubs and unlock extra funding for their school. 

“For many children, school lunch may be the most nutritious meal of their day. It builds healthy habits and gives parents peace of mind.” 

Quick and confidential application 

We offer a confidential eligibility checker so parents and carers can easily find out if they qualify. Schools do not see any financial information, and most families won’t need to submit paper evidence. 

Check your eligibility and apply here 

If you have any concerns or questions, you can also call 01305 221090 or email freeschoolmeals@dorsetcouncil.gov.uk