Free school meals

When to apply

Children moving from year 2 to Year 3

For children moving from year 2 to 3 in September, you should make an application for free school meals from 1 August, selecting the school the child will be attending. Please do not apply earlier than this date.

Children moving from year 6 to Year 7

For children moving from year 6 to 7 in September, you should make an application for free school meals from 1 August, selecting the school the child will be attending. Please do not apply earlier than this date.

All other years

You can apply at any time throughout the year.

Apply

Your application will be refused if you're not receiving any of the listed benefits. Please consider this before applying.

If you have previously applied, and your child has been awarded Free School Meals, you do not need to re-apply unless there is a change in your circumstances, such as change of address or school.

Apply

Your application will be processed within 15 working days, but it can take longer if you apply in September.

We will contact you and the school if your child is entitled.

If your child’s school is not listed in the dropdown list on the application form, you must contact the school directly to apply for free school meals.

Change of circumstances

If your child changes school or address, you will need to reapply for free school meals.