We encourage all eligible families to apply for free school meals (FSM). As well as the reassurance that an eligible student is receiving a healthy, nutritious meal every school day, FSM eligibility can also open up other avenues of financial support .

Eligibility

Prior to April 2018, children qualified for free school meals - and accordingly pupil premium - if the parent received any of the following benefits:

• Income Support
• Income-based jobseekers' allowance
• income-related employment and support allowance
• Support under Part IV of the Immigration and Asylum Act 1999
• The guaranteed element of state pension credit
• Child tax credit, provided that you are not also entitled to working tax credit and have an annual gross income of £16,190 or less. 

These benefits have now been rolled into a single benefit, called Universal Credit.  From April 2018, free school meals and pupil premium will only be allocated to pupils with a family income under £7,400 (net) per year.  If your child qualifies for Free School Meals, or may be eligible for the Pupil Premium it is important that you let the Academy know.

Eligibility has to be verified and at Huish Episcopi Academy we use Somerset County Council (SCC) to do this on our behalf.  You do not have to provide proof of receipt of benefits. SCC will run a check on receipt of your application and confirm to you and us at Huish Episcopi Academy if you are eligible or not within 5-10 working days. As soon as you have been advised that you are eligible and that your application has been approved, please could you contact the Academy Finance Office to ensure that there is no delay in setting your child up to receive FSM. 

How do I apply?

If you believe you may be eligible and would like to apply for free school meals for your child please follow this link: FSM Application and complete the application form. Alternatively, contact the Academy Office on 01458 250501 for further information.