Check your child’s eligibility and claim what’s yours

Universal Primary Free School Meals

All children in primary school can now enjoy free school meals.

Even if your child is receiving Universal Primary Free School Meals, you still need to check eligibility to access the School Essentials Grant.

School Essentials Grant

Your child could be eligible for financial help of up to £200 for:

• school uniform, including coats and footwear
• school activities: this could include learning a musical instrument, sports kit and other equipment for after school activities
• classroom essentials: this could include pens, pencils and school bags

Free School Meals

Secondary school

If you receive certain benefits or if your financial circumstances have changed recently, check your eligibility for Free School Meals, the School Essentials Grant and extra funding for your school.

Primary school

Even if your child is receiving Universal Primary Free School Meals, you still need to check your eligibility for other support, such as the School Essentials Grant and extra funding for your school.

Support for you and funding for your school

Pupil Development Grant

When you register for Free School Meals, your school could get additional funding.

Find out more about the extra funding available for your school through the Pupil Development Grant.

Education Maintenance Allowance (EMA)

Is your child 16-18 years old and continuing their education in school or college?

EMA offers weekly £40 payments (paid every two weeks) directly to eligible students to help with costs such as travel, books, and equipment. 

Check eligibility and apply online in minutes.

Get additional help with the cost of living

Find out more about support and advice available to help you with the increased cost of living.