For some children, schools will be able to claim Pupil Premium, which will help provide them with further support. The government provides this extra money to be used to help pupils entitled to Free School Meals (FSM) to make the very best progress possible. The criteria for eligibility is the same as the free school meal criteria detailed below. If you could be eligible you can check on the NCC free school meals Free School Meals

Eligibility

You may qualify for free school meals (FSM) and other help if you receive certain benefits or support. You must apply for free school meals.

From September 2026, there are two types of entitlement:

• Targeted: you receive Universal Credit and earn under £7,400 a year or another qualifying benefit: your children are entitled to FSM and extra support for their school
• Expanded: you receive Universal Credit and earn above £7,400: your children are entitled to FSM only

The qualifying benefits are:

• Universal Credit
• Income-related Employment and Support Allowance
• Support under Part 6 of the Immigration and Asylum Act 1999
• The guaranteed element of Pension Credit

Families with No Recourse to Public Funds (NRPF) may also be eligible.

• Department for Education Articles and advice for children and young people.