There are significant changes coming up for pupils’ access to Free School Meals.
What is changing?
From September 2026, free school meals will be available to all children in households receiving Universal Credit. The current transitional protection arrangements will end, and eligibility will need to be checked under the new national rules for the 2026/27 school year. All parents must re-apply for free school meals for September 2026. Previous eligibility will not automatically continue under the new rules.
Important information for Reception, Year 1 and Year 2 families (UIFSM)
Children in Reception, Year 1 and Year 2 will continue to receive Universal Infant Free School Meals (UIFSM) automatically.
However, we strongly encourage all parents to apply, as this may enable the school to receive additional funding to support your child.
Why apply?
You could be eligible for free, healthy meals for your child. Applying helps the school identify children who may attract additional funding. This funding will be invested in your child’s school to improve educational outcomes. Annual eligibility checks will now take place. Applying now helps make sure your child’s entitlement is correctly recorded for September 2026.
Eligibility
Targeted free school meals
- Children from households in receipt of Universal Credit with annual household earnings of £7,400 or less.
- Households qualifying for free meals because they are in receipt of support under Part VI of the Immigration and Asylum Act 1999.
- Households in receipt of Income-related Employment and Support Allowance or the guarantee element of Pension Credit.
- Families with no recourse to public funds (NRPF). This gives entitlement to free school meals and may help schools receive additional pupil premium funding.
Expanded free school meals
- Children in households receiving Universal Credit with earnings above £7,400 a year.
This gives entitlement to free school meals.
When to apply:
Applications for the 2026/27 school year open on 1 June 2026.
We encourage you to apply as soon as possible, ideally before the end of the summer term, so arrangements are in place for September.
How to apply:
Please apply using the Free School Meals application form on the Bracknell Forest website:
If you are unsure or would like support, please contact the school office; we are very happy to help.