Pupil Premium

Many of us will be affected by the current cost of living crisis.  We want to ensure families are aware of any benefits that may be available to support you at this time.

Reception, Year 1 & 2

Universal Infant Free School Meals are automatically offered to all pupils in reception, year one and year two. If you receive any of the following benefits, please complete the Pupil Premium application form:

Pupil premium - Dorset Council

This will secure extra funding for your school which can be used to support your child in school, or help with the cost of uniforms or trips.

The criteria for free school meals/pupil premium is as follows:

• Income Support
• Income-based Jobseeker's Allowance
• Income-related Employment and Support Allowance
• Support under part VI of the Immigration and Asylum Act 1999
• The guaranteed element of Pension Credit
• Child Tax Credit: if you're not entitled to Working Tax Credit and your annual gross income is no more than £16,190
• Working Tax Credit 'run-on' payment (paid for 4 weeks after you stop qualifying for Working Tax Credit)
• Universal Credit: if your household income is less than £7,400 a year (after tax and not including any benefits you get)

Year 3 and above

Benefit related free school meals are available to pupils whose parents or carers meet any of the above criteria.

Please visit Dorset Council’s webpage for further information and a quick and easy online application form

Apply for free school meals - Dorset Council

The eligibility checking service is confidential and the school won't see any specific information about your income or the benefits you receive. If you need any help with applying, please let us know.

Free Holiday Activities

If your child is approved for Free School Meals, they will not only have access to a healthy meal every school day, but they can also take part in the Holiday Activities and Food (HAF) programme.  For further information, including how to apply, please visit:

https://www.dorsetcouncil.gov.uk/w/haf-programme

If you have any questions, you can contact Dorset Council’s Free School Meals team on 01305 221090 or email freeschoolmeals@dorsetcouncil.gov.uk for confidential advice and support.

Pupil Premium Strategy

Pupil Premium Strategy 2025/26