Complete an application form to claim additional funding for your child’s school

All pupils who go to school in the Cheshire West and Chester area, and are in reception, year 1 or year 2 in September 2023 can receive a school meal at no cost to the parent or guardian.

However, it’s important that all parents or guardians that have a statutory entitlement to a free school meal complete the online application form. Completing the free school meals application form may mean that your child’s school can claim additional funding, known as the Pupil Premium.

The Pupil Premium is extra money given to your child’s school to spend on resources such as one to one tutoring, music lessons, extracurricular clubs, and school trips. For the academic year 2023/2024 this is £1455.00 per eligible pupil. Funding is based on children registered for a free school meal, further reinforcing the importance of making sure all those who qualify are registered.

Your child may be entitled to receive free school meals if you are in receipt of one of the following:

• Income Support
• Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance
• Income-related Employment and Support Allowance
• Support under Part VI of the Immigration and Asylum Act 1999
• The guaranteed element of State Pension Credit
• Child Tax Credit, provided you are not entitled to Working Tax Credit and have an annual income that does not exceed £16,190.
• Universal Credit (provided you have an annual net earned income of no more than £7,400)

To apply online use the link below. The on-line eligibility checker will notify you straight away if you do or do not qualify.

Free school meals | Cheshire West and Chester Council

If you cannot apply online contact your school who will be able to provide you with a paper application form, alternatively you can telephone Free School Meals on 0300 123 7039.

It is essential that you complete the online form to help make sure your child’s school is funded as well as possible.

Plus, there are additional benefits of free school meals to you and your child, including:

• savings of more than £450 a year per child
• saves time making packed lunches
• your child gets a healthy, tasty cooked meal
• children achieve more when they've had a cooked lunch.