Pupil Premium is additional funding given to schools so that they can support ‘disadvantaged pupils’ and close the attainment gap between them and their peers. This additional funding is based upon the number of pupils who currently qualify for free school meals or who have done so in the last 6 years; children who have been adopted from care; looked after children and children of Service Personnel.

In order to qualify for Free School Meals you need to check to see if you are in receipt of one of the following benefits:

• Income Support
• Income related Employment & Support Allowance
• Income related Jobseekers Allowance
• Support under part VI of the Immigration & Asylum Act 1999
• The Guaranteed element of State Pension Credit
• Universal Credit – Based on your income assessed by Universal Credit
• Child Tax Credit; provided they are not entitled to Working Tax Credit and have an annual income that does not exceed £16,190

Registering is really quick and easy. If you think you qualify, you can apply on-line at www.northamptonshire.gov.uk/freeschoolmeals  or text ‘FSM’ followed by your full name, National Insurance Number, your child’s name and school name to 60622.

For further information please email freeschoolmeals@childrenfirstnorthamptonshire.co.uk.

Even though all children in EYFS, Year 1 or Year 2 qualify for Universal Free School Meals, please still apply for Free School Meals if you think you may be eligible. If you qualify for free school meals the school will receive additional funding which will be used to support your child. The school uses this funding to pay for your child’s place on school trips and residential visits; attend an after school club or learn to play an instrument.

If you qualify for Free School Meals and you don’t want your child to have the school meal, they can continue with a packed lunch as normal.

Guidance for the Pupil Premium funding stream can be found here Pupil premium guidance.