Education, Health & Lifestyle | Posted on September 9th, 2025 | return to news

Free school meals checked for Dorset schoolchildren

Families are being urged to check to see if their child is eligible for free school meals if their circumstances have changed.

Dorset Council is urging families to check if their child is eligible for free school meals, particularly if their circumstances have changed.

This support not only saves families up to £490 per year per child, but ensures children receive a healthy, filling lunch every day.

School meals comply with School Food Standards, which help ensure children get the energy and nutrition they need across the whole school day.

Sharing meals together can help children to socialise, make friends, and develop healthy eating habits.

People whose child received free school meals last year don’t need to reapply. All approved pupils will remain eligible until at least the end of the 2025/26 school year.

A Department for Education pilot found that having a regular healthy school meal improved academic performance in English and Maths; narrowed attainment gaps for low-income families and helped boost concentration and behaviour in class

Schools also benefit. For every child approved, they receive extra government funding called the Pupil Premium, worth between £1,075 and £1,515 annually. This helps fund additional teaching staff, tuition, and enrichment activities.

In Dorset, children eligible for free school meals can access free holiday clubs during the summer, Christmas and Easter school holidays. They’ll also receive holiday food vouchers until at least March 2026.

All children in Reception, Year 1, and Year 2 automatically receive free school meals.

Cllr Clare Sutton, Cabinet Member for Children’s Services, Education & Skills, said: “School dinners support children’s physical development, concentration and emotional wellbeing — vital for success in and out of the classroom.

“If you receive benefits, please use our quick and confidential checker to see if your child qualifies. They’ll also gain access to free holiday clubs and unlock extra funding for their school.

“For many children, school lunch may be the most nutritious meal of their day. It builds healthy habits and gives parents peace of mind.”

People can check their eligibility at https://www.dorsetcouncil.gov.uk/w/free-school-meals.