Free School Meals
At St Thomas More Catholic Primary School and Nursery, we believe that every child should have access to a healthy, nutritious meal during the school day. We understand that families may need support, and we encourage all eligible families to apply for Free School Meals.
Changes to Free School Meals from September 2026
From September 2026, the Government is expanding Free School Meal eligibility. Children whose families receive Universal Credit will be eligible for a free school meal, subject to the annual eligibility checking process.
Parents and carers will still need to complete an application to confirm their child’s eligibility. This ensures that your child’s details are recorded correctly and that the school can access any additional support available.
Why apply for Free School Meals?
Even if your child is already receiving a free meal through another scheme, it is important that families complete the eligibility check if they think they may qualify.
Registering your child can help the school access additional funding, which supports children across the school through extra resources, activities and opportunities.
New Free School Meal Categories
From September 2026, children eligible for Free School Meals will be identified under one of two categories:
Targeted Free School Meals
Children identified as Targeted FSM will:
- Receive a free school meal
- Attract Pupil Premium funding for the school
- Enable the school to provide additional support and opportunities for eligible pupils
Expanded Free School Meals
Children identified as Expanded FSM will:
- Receive a free school meal
- Not attract Pupil Premium funding for the school
Although both categories provide a free school meal, the funding arrangements are different.
Universal Infant Free School Meals
Children in Reception, Year 1 and Year 2 continue to be entitled to a free school meal through the Government’s Universal Infant Free School Meals (UIFSM) scheme.
Booking School Meals
All school meals must continue to be booked through the Arbor Parent App.
Parents and carers should:
- Select their child
- Choose their meal option
- Book meals in advance
This applies to all children, including those who are eligible for Free School Meals, as it allows us to ensure the correct meals are prepared each day.
Free School Meals Eligibility Check
Parents and carers can check whether their child is eligible for Free School Meals by completing the online check using the LGfL Free School Meals Checker.
If your child is confirmed as eligible, please download the Certificate of Eligibility and return a copy to the school office. This will allow us to update our records and ensure your child receives their entitlement.
Please complete the check using the link below:
If you need any help completing the process, or would prefer a paper application form, please contact the school office.
Further Information
For more information about Free School Meals and eligibility, please visit:
Oxfordshire County Council – Free School Meals
https://www.oxfordshire.gov.uk/schools/school/school-meals
