Free School Meals

Dear Parents and Carers,

Did you know that your child could qualify for Free School Meals?

At Vyners School, we are committed to ensuring that every student has the best possible environment in which to learn and thrive.  The Children's Wellbeing and Schools Act 2026 introduced the most substantial change in FSM eligibility in recent years.  The changes take effect from the start of the 26/27 academic year.

From 1 September 2026, free school meals are expanded to all students in Years 7-13 where the household is in receipt of universal credit - regardless of total household income.

Eligibility now falls into 2 categories:

Targeted FSM - households in receipt of universal credit with earnings of £7400 or less.  These students receive a free meal, plus extra support eg school equipment, support towards uniform costs and support to enable them to take part in school trips.

Expanded FSM - all families in receipt of universal credit.  These students are all entitled to a free meal every day.

Please note that all transitional protections cease on 31 August.  From 1 September, all families must apply afresh for free school meals.

Vyners School actively encourages all families entitled to Free School Meals to make a claim. No-one else will know that your child qualifies for Free School Meals, as we use a cashless system that means that payment is discreet. Your child’s catering account is topped up automatically with £3.02 every day.  This may be spent on any item in the canteen, at either breakfast break or lunch.   Please note that students cannot ‘save up’ their allowance and that, once the allowance is reached, any further purchases must be funded by parental 'top up'.

If you would like to apply for Free School Meals for your child, please complete the google form here