Free School Meals

Primary Pupils

Pupils in reception, year 1 and year 2 automatically get free school meals. This is called Universal infant free school meals (UIFSM). You don't need to apply for UIFSM it is automatically allocated.

Pupils in year 3 or older

Your child may be eligible for free school meals if you are receiving any of the following:

• Income Support

• Income-based Jobseeker's Allowance

• Child Tax Credit (not Working Tax Credit), with an annual income below £16,190

• Pension Guarantee Credit

• Employment and Support Allowance, income related

• Support under part 6 of the Immigration and Asylum Act, 1999

• Working Tax Credit run-on, paid for 4 weeks after you stop qualifying for Working Tax Credit

• Universal Credit, with a household income of £7,400 or less (after tax and not including any benefits you get)

Apply

You can apply online.

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

Essex County Council will contact you and Cedar Hall if your child is entitled.

Change of circumstances

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