Not Just Free School Meals – More Support for You, More Funding for Our School

Even though all primary pupils in Wales now receive universal free school meals, it’s still very important to apply for Free School Meal (FSM) eligibility if you qualify.

Doing so helps you and our school.

Why It Matters

By registering for eligible Free School Meals (eFSM), you can access:
  • School Essentials Grant – help with uniform, PE kit, bags, and equipment.
  • Extra support for your child if needed.
  • More funding for our school through the Pupil Development Grant (PDG).
Your child doesn’t have to take the school meal every day, but being registered makes a difference!
Who Can Apply
You can apply if you receive any of the following benefits:
  • Income Support (IS)
  • Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance (JSA-IB)
  • Income-related Employment and Support Allowance (ESA-IR)
  • Support under the Immigration and Asylum Act 1999
  • Guarantee element of Pension Credit
  • Child Tax Credit (not receiving Working Tax Credit) with an income of £16,190 or less
  • Universal Credit with net annual earnings of £7,400 or less
  • Working Tax Credit “run-on” (for up to 4 weeks after you stop work or reduce hours)
How to Apply
You can apply online via Powys County Council: Apply for Free School Meals – Powys Council
If you already receive Housing Benefit or Council Tax Reduction from Powys, you may not need to complete the full form — Powys can often check automatically.
If you can’t apply online, you can request a paper form: Powys FSM Team: 01597 826 008
What Happens Next
  • Powys Council checks your details securely with the Department for Work and Pensions.
  • If approved, both you and the school will be notified.
  • Your child will then receive free meals at school.
  • The school also gains extra funding to support learning and wellbeing.
School Essentials Grant
If your child qualifies for FSM, you can also apply for a School Essentials Grant to help with:
  • School uniform
  • PE kit and trainers
  • School bags and stationery
  • Equipment for learning
If you’d like help with your application, please contact any of the school offices or Jan Smith (Family Liaison Officer) jan.smith@powys.gov.uk