Changes from September 2026
From September 2026, the Government has expanded Free School Meal (FSM) eligibility. More children are now entitled to free meals, and we encourage eligible families to apply.
Who Is Eligible?
Children may qualify if their parent or carer receives:
- Universal Credit
- Income-related Employment and Support Allowance (ESA)
- The guarantee element of Pension Credit
- Support under Part VI of the Immigration and Asylum Act 1999
- Support through No Recourse to Public Funds (NRPF) arrangements
Eligibility must be confirmed before free meals can be awarded.
Two Types of Free School Meals
Targeted FSM
Children from households receiving Universal Credit with annual earnings of £7,400 or less. These pupils are eligible for free meals and attract additional school funding, including Pupil Premium.
Expanded FSM
Children from households receiving Universal Credit with annual earnings above £7,400. These pupils are entitled to free meals but do not attract the additional funding linked to Targeted FSM.
Important Changes
Transitional protection has ended.
From September 2026, families must continue to meet the eligibility criteria to remain entitled to benefits-based FSM.
Annual eligibility checks are now required.
Schools and local authorities must review eligibility each year. Families may be asked to confirm details, re-apply or provide evidence of qualifying benefits.
Evidence Requirements
Applications will be checked through the Department for Education's verification system. If eligibility cannot be confirmed automatically, we may request evidence such as:
- A recent Universal Credit statement
- A benefits award letter
- Other documentation requested by the school or local authority
Providing evidence promptly will help avoid delays.
Why Apply?
Registering for FSM provides valuable support for families. Pupils eligible for Targeted FSM also help schools access additional funding to support learning, wellbeing and enrichment opportunities.
How to Apply
Apply online using the Ark Schools FSM application system:
Once submitted, your eligibility will be checked through the Department for Education's verification system.
Need Help?
If you are unsure whether you qualify or need help completing an application, please contact the school office on 393 4459 or email info@arkvictoria.org
Further Information
For more information about Free School Meals eligibility and the changes introduced from September 2026, please visit the Government guidance:
🔗 Free School Meals: Guidance for Schools and Local Authorities (GOV.UK) [gov.uk]
You can also read the Department for Education's parent-friendly summary:
🔗 Expanding Free School Meals: What Parents Need to Know[educationh...log.gov.uk]