CHILDREN went back to school last week- but some may be missing out on free school meals despite qualifying for them.

For families whose financial situation has changed, free school meals may offer a slight relief as well as help to keep their child on track at school.

Parents could save themselves up to £500 a year if their child qualifies for free school meals.

All children in Reception, Year 1, and Year 2 automatically receive free school meals. However, if families receive qualifying benefits, it’s still important to apply.

This ensures children can access additional support like holiday activities and vouchers, and their school receives pupil premium funding.

There’s extra support for Dorset schoolchildren, as those eligible can also access free holiday clubs during the summer, Christmas and Easter school holidays. They’ll also receive holiday food vouchers until at least March 2026.

Schools also benefit from the scheme, as 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.

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Dorset Council has a confidential eligibility checker so parents and carers can easily find out if they qualify.

Schools do not see any financial information, and most families won’t need to submit paper evidence.

Councillor Clare Sutton, cabinet member for children’s services, education and skills at Dorset Council, 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.”

Children may be eligible for free school meals if families are in receipt of income support, child tax credit, working tax credit, Universal Credit and more.

Children who get paid these benefits directly, instead of through a parent or guardian, can also get free school meals.

Families that previously received free school meals last year do not need to reapply as all approved pupils will remain eligible until at least the end of the 2025/26 school year.

Visit https://www.dorsetcouncil.gov.uk/w/free-school-meals for more information.