Children in Reception, Year 1 and Year 2 automatically get free school meals if they go to school. It's called universal infant free school meals. You do not have to apply to get these meals, but if you do receive one of the benefits listed below, you should still apply. This is because it can help raise extra funds for your child's school (called Pupil Premium). This Government funding can help with extra tuition, teaching and after school activities.
If your child is in Year 3 or above, you must receive one of the following benefits to get free school meals:
You must apply for these free school meals.
You can apply online for free school meals using your Norfolk Education Online (NEO) account. You can use the same account for 2-year-old childcare funding and school admissions.
You can also download and send us an application form. Or collect it from your child's school.
Families with British National (Overseas) status and families with No Recourse to Public Funds (NRPF) are entitled to apply for free school meals by completing the NRPF free school meals application.
If you are eligible for free school meals we'll email or write to you to let you know. We'll also tell your child's school. If we need more information about your application, we'll contact you.
If your child moves schools within Norfolk, they will continue to receive free school meals if they are still eligible.
If your child is moving to a school outside Norfolk, you will need to apply to the county council where the new school is.
Children who are normally home-schooled are not eligible for free school meals. This includes both universal free school meals and families who receive benefits.
If you home-school your children and are in hardship, apply for support via Norfolk Assistance Scheme.
If you pay for school meals, go to your child's school website for cost, menu and payment information.
If the local authority runs the school (known as a maintained school), they must offer milk during school hours. This includes all maintained:
Children aged 5-11–years-old can buy a standard carton of milk.
