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Apply for free school meals

Benefits of free school meals

In Kent, 21% of children receive free school meals. If you are eligible and register your child will get:

  • a choice of delicious, healthy hot meals every school day at no cost - this is worth £470 a year per child and recognised to improve behaviour and learning
  • meals to cater for cultural, dietary, and religious requirements
  • the chance to develop social skills by sitting with friends for a school meal.

The school will receive additional funding to cover the catering cost and school funding grants, such as the Pupil Premium, based on their take up of free school meals.

Some schools and academies also offer reduced rates for school trips, clubs, after school care, holiday activities and uniform to children registered for free school meals.

Universal free school meals

If your child is in year R, year 1 or year 2 they are entitled to universal free school meals - all children in these year groups can get a free meal at school each day.

If you receive certain benefits, your child's school can also get some additional money to support your child's learning. We encourage you to check your eligibility and apply online as your child's school can benefit from the additional funding if you apply for the free school meals.

Eligibility and apply

Your eligibility will be checked and your application processed straight away. If your application is successful the school will be notified and your child should start receiving their free school meal within 24 hours. We may ask for proof of benefit after you apply.

Check your eligibility and apply now

If you apply and are eligible, even if your circumstances change, you will remain eligible for benefits-related free school meals until your child finishes their current phase of education (either Year 6 if they are in primary school or Year 11 if they are in secondary school).

This will continue to be the case until the end of March 2025.

Application support

If you have difficulties completing the application form, read our guidance.

Urgent food and supplies

If your child is not currently eligible for free school meals or you are waiting for a benefit application to be approved and need food and supplies urgently, contact Kent Support and Assistance Service.