Your child may be eligible for Free School Meals, helping to ensure they receive a healthy, nutritious meal each school day. Applying is quick and confidential, and eligibility may also provide additional funding to support your child's education.
Free School Meals: FAQ's
What are Free School Meals (FSM)?
Free School Meals provide eligible pupils with a free school lunch during the school day. Eligibility is set by the government and schools/local authorities manage applications.
What has changed about Free School Meals?
From September 2026, eligibility rules are changing so that more families may qualify. Families receiving Universal Credit may now be eligible under the updated arrangements.
We encourage all families to check eligibility, even if you have not qualified before.
Who can apply for Free School Meals?
You may be able to apply if you receive Universal Credit or other qualifying benefits.
Because eligibility rules can change and individual circumstances vary, we encourage all families who think they might qualify to apply.
Please note, different Local Authorities may process FSM applications differently.
Torbay Council have advised - current eligible claims
Current eligible families should not reapply.
A new checking system will be introduced in July/August in preparation for the new academic year. At that point, all current eligible claims will be rechecked and parents and schools will be informed by the Local Authority of any changes to eligibility.
Devon County Council - What will happen after the 2025/26 academic year?
From the start of the 2026/27 academic year, it is the Department for Education’s intention that all protections will be discontinued, alongside an extension to the eligibility criteria for free school meals.
The new eligibility criteria, in this academic year, will see any students in households of those in receipt of Universal Credit, being eligible for free school meals – regardless of their household income.
From this point, all households must meet the eligibility criteria to be entitled to free school meals.
At the end of the 2025/26 academic year, all free school meal claims will be checked for eligibility, and those who do not meet the criteria will not be entitled to free school meals. This includes all transitional protected claims that were previously entitled until their ‘end of phase’.
My child brings packed lunches – should I still apply?
Yes, even if your child usually brings lunch from home, registering may still unlock additional support and funding for school resources and pupil support.
I applied before and was refused. Should I try again?
Yes. Eligibility rules change and family circumstances change too. We encourage families to reapply if circumstances have changed or if you are unsure.
Will other children know my child receives Free School Meals?
No, applications are confidential and schools work hard to ensure children are not identified because they receive Free School Meals.
Will staff know my financial circumstances?
Only staff who need access to eligibility information for administrative purposes will usually see this information. Applications are treated confidentially.
How do I apply?
Applications are completed through our local authority system.
Apply here: Free school meals - Torbay Council or for Devon County Council: Applying for free school meals - Children, families and education
How long does an application take?
Most applications are quick to complete and only take a few minutes. Processing times may vary depending on the local authority.
What information will I need to apply?
You may be asked for information such as:
If I receive Universal Credit, does that automatically mean my child gets Free School Meals?
Families receiving Universal Credit are encouraged to apply because eligibility arrangements are changing from September 2026. Submitting an application is the best way to confirm entitlement.
Does registering help the school?
Yes, when families register for Free School Meals, schools may receive additional funding to support pupils through extra resources, interventions and wider support.
Can my child still have school meals if they have allergies or dietary requirements?
Yes, please contact the school office to discuss allergies, medical needs or dietary requirements so suitable arrangements can be made.
To view the letter sent to parents: Updated letter regarding important changes to free school meal eligibility from September 2026 - July 2026
To view our school meal menu - head to Food at Paignton Academy
Together, we can ensure every child has the support they need to thrive and succeed.