Universal Free School Meals for All London Primary Pupils

We’re pleased to confirm that all primary school children in state-funded London schools will continue to receive free school meals for the 2025–26 academic year.

This initiative, funded by the Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, remains in place as part of a wider cost of living support package to help families across the capital. It ensures that every primary-aged pupil has access to at least one nutritious meal per day, regardless of income or benefit status.

This support could save families upwards of £440 per child per year—a vital relief during continued cost pressures on household budgets.

Please click here to read the full article 

Benefit-Related Free School Meals

In addition to the Mayor's universal offer, your child may still be eligible for benefit-related free school meals, which can unlock extra funding for your school (known as the Pupil Premium). If you think you might be eligible, we encourage you to apply—even if your child already receives a meal under the universal scheme.

You may be eligible if you receive one of the following:

• Income Support

• Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance

• Income-related Employment and Support Allowance

• Child Tax Credit (but not Working Tax Credit) and have an annual income below £16,190

• Universal Credit, with an annual net earned income below £7,400

• The guaranteed element of Pension Credit

• Support under Part VI of the Immigration and Asylum Act 1999

• Working Tax Credit run-on (paid for 4 weeks after eligibility ends)

If your child qualifies now, they will remain eligible until the end of their current phase of education (end of Year 6 for primary; end of Year 11 for secondary), even if your financial circumstances change.

Families with No Recourse to Public Funds (NRPF)

The government has permanently extended eligibility for free school meals to children from NRPF households, subject to income thresholds.

Eligible groups include (but are not limited to):

• Zambrano and Chen carers

• Families with leave to remain under Article 8 (ECHR)

• Families supported under Section 17 of the Children Act 1989

• BN(O) passport holders

• Spousal, student, and work visa holders

• Failed asylum seekers supported under Section 4

• Those with no immigration status

Income thresholds for NRPF families (within London):

• £31,200 per year for families with 1 child

• £34,800 per year for families with 2 or more children

Need Help or Have Questions?

If you're unsure about eligibility or need support completing an application, please speak to Mrs White at the school office — we’re happy to help confidentially and without judgment.