Applying for Free School Meals
Free School Meals and Pupil Premium application forms should no longer be used, applications for both need to be made online or by phone.
If you think that your may qualify for free school meals or for Pupil Premium, please apply for FSM or PP online by calling: 0300 123 5012.
Free School Meals (FSM) Information
From September 2026, the Government has widened the eligibility criteria for Free School Meals (FSM). If you think your child may now be eligible, we encourage you to apply through Cheshire East Council.
If your application is successful, the school will be notified automatically, and your child’s catering account will be updated accordingly.
Why apply?
Even if your child usually brings a packed lunch, registering for Free School Meals may provide additional funding for the school through the Pupil Premium. This funding helps us support students through a range of educational opportunities and resources.
Frequently Asked Questions
My child has been approved for Free School Meals. What do I need to do now?
Nothing. Once we receive confirmation of eligibility from Cheshire East Council, your child’s catering account will be updated automatically. The daily FSM allowance will be added to their account, and no further action is required unless there appears to be a problem.
Cheshire East Council told me to forward my eligibility email to school. Do I need to do this?
No. The school receives eligibility information directly through the appropriate systems. In most cases there is no need to forward your confirmation email to us.
When will the allowance appear on my child’s account?
It can take a few working days for eligibility information to be processed and updated on our systems. If the allowance has not appeared after a reasonable period, please contact the school.
How much money is added to my child’s account?
Students who are eligible receive the current daily Free School Meal allowance automatically on each school day.
Can my child spend more than the daily allowance?
If your child wishes to purchase items costing more than the daily allowance, parents and carers can add additional funds to their catering account in the usual way.
Can the Free School Meal allowance be used at break and lunchtime?
Yes
What happens if my child does not use the allowance?
The allowance is available for that day only and does not carry forward if unused.
Will my child be identified as receiving Free School Meals?
No. Students use the catering system in the same way as all other students. There is no visible distinction at the point of sale, and the system is designed to maintain confidentiality.
Can previous meal costs be refunded?
No as the expanded free school meals programme only came into effect from 1 September 2026.
What should I do if my child’s allowance is not showing on their account?
Please contact the school and provide:
- Student name
- Form group or year group
- Date eligibility was confirmed
- Any correspondence received from Cheshire East Council
Contact Us
If you have any questions about Free School Meals, please contact the school and we will be happy to help.
