Pupil Premium/Free School Meals
The Government has committed to give extra money to schools so that they can provide extra support to children who need it most. This is called pupil premium.
The pupil premium funding scheme provides a range of benefits for these children in school. Each school can use their pupil premium in a different way. Schools may decide to use it for new equipment for the children, school trips or teaching/support staff.
Below is a link to the FSM information on WBC’s website where you can check if you meet the eligibility criteria.
www.warrington.gov.uk/freeschoolmeals
We have also provided the forms below FSM application form for KS2 and Pupil Premium form for KS1.
Free School Meals – Important Information for Parents and Carers
The Department for Education has updated its guidance about free school meals in England. From the start of the 2026–2027 academic year, eligibility for free school meals will be expanded. This means that all children from households receiving Universal Credit will be entitled to receive a free school meal, regardless of household earnings. At the moment, free school meal eligibility is mainly linked to certain benefits and, for Universal Credit families, an annual household earnings threshold. From September 2026, there will be two categories of free school meal eligibility:
Targeted Free School Meals
This applies to families receiving Universal Credit with annual household earnings of £7,400 or less, as well as some other eligible benefit groups. Children in this category will receive free school meals, and the school may also receive additional funding, such as pupil premium, to support pupils’ education.
Expanded Free School Meals
This applies to children from families receiving Universal Credit whose annual household earnings are above £7,400. These children will be entitled to a free school meal, but this category does not automatically attract pupil premium funding for the school.
All children in Reception, Year 1 and Year 2 will continue to receive a free meal through the Universal Infant Free School Meals scheme. However, families who may be eligible for benefits-related free school meals should still apply, or ensure their details are up to date, as this can help the school access additional funding to support children.
If your child already receives benefits-related free school meals, you do not need to worry. Eligibility will be rechecked before the start of the new academic year. In some cases, we may need families to confirm or update details so that the local authority or school can complete the check. This is because the national transitional protection arrangements are ending, and free school meal eligibility will need to be verified annually.
We would strongly encourage any family who thinks they may be eligible to apply. This ensures children receive the support they are entitled to and helps school plan meals and provision effectively.