Universal Infant Free School Meals

All children in Reception, Year 1 and Year 2 at state-funded schools are entitled to a free school meal through the Universal Infant Free School Meals scheme, regardless of household income.

If you receive Universal Credit or other qualifying benefits, please also register for benefits-related free school meals, even if your child already receives an infant free meal. This allows eligibility for additional support and school funding to be checked.

Benefits-related Free School Meals

From September 2026, children from all households receiving Universal Credit can qualify for free school meals, regardless of household earnings. Some other benefits and circumstances may also qualify.

When children enter Year 3, their universal infant entitlement ends, but they can continue to receive free meals if they meet the benefits-related eligibility criteria.

Please visit the Nottinghamshire County Council website for the full eligibility criteria.

Pupil Premium Funding

Registering for free school meals may also help the school receive Pupil Premium, additional funding used to improve educational outcomes for disadvantaged pupils through teaching, resources and targeted support.

Pupil Premium is linked to targeted free school meal eligibility, including qualifying Universal Credit households with annual earnings of £7,400 or less. Children who qualify only through the expanded Universal Credit entitlement do not automatically attract Pupil Premium funding.

Applying for Free School Meals

You can check if your child is eligible for free school meals and find more information by visiting the Nottinghamshire County Council website or by contacting the Free School Meals Team on 0300 500 8080.

Please contact the school office if you would like help with your application.