All parents are strongly advised to apply for Free School Meals for their child (in Years 7-13) if they are in receipt of one of the following benefits:

  • 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 guarantee element of Pension Credit
  • Child Tax Credit (provided you’re not also entitled to Working Tax Credit and have an annual gross income of no more than £16,190) – Working Tax Credit is a disqualifying benefit regardless of your household income – this means that you would not be entitled to Free School Meals whilst in receipt of Working Tax Credit
  • Working Tax Credit run-on – paid for four weeks after you stop qualifying for Working Tax Credit
  • Universal Credit (provided you have an annual net earned income of no more than £7,400, as assessed by earnings from up to three of your most recent assessment periods)

 

Young benefit claimants application for free school meals: Children who get paid these benefits directly, instead of through a parent or guardian, can also get free school meals.

 

FAQs

Why should I apply for Free School Meals?

Your child will have access to a varied menu, provided through AI Partnership and the school receives an additional payment from the Government (The Pupil Premium) based on our numbers of free school meal pupils.

How do I apply for Free School Meals?

Visit the Redbridge Free School Meals information page using the below link. From there, you will be directed to the Redbridge Parent Portal where you will need to create an account or log in if previously registered. They will require proof of your receipt of the above benefits. https://www.redbridge.gov.uk/schools/free-school-meals/

Will other students know that my child receives Free School Meals?

The school uses a cashless catering system. Students entitled to Free School Meals will have their account automatically credited with money and therefore the process is completely discreet.

Will my child have to eat a school meal if I register?

While it is recommended that your child eats a school meal, due to the nutritional value it provides, this is optional. We would ask that you register regardless of whether or not they want a meal so we can receive this funding.

What is the Pupil Premium?

The school, as a whole, benefits from an additional funding, currently at £1,035 per year, for every child registered for Free School Meals from the Government, providing us with a very important boost to school funds. This allows us to invest in extra support such as interventions, learning assistants or access to online resources for the students who need it most. If you register this year, then we will receive the Pupil Premium funding next year.

When will I know and how long will the support last?

If you are eligible, our school will be notified. Eligible children will remain so until they complete their schooling.