Free School Meals & Pupil Premium
The Government operates a Free School Meal system to support children from lower income families. Since 2011, pupil premium is a funding scheme which allows schools to access additional funding linked to the number of children claiming free school meals (FSM). Those pupils who are in receipt of Free School Meals, or who have had Free School Meals in the last 6 years, are eligible for support with this Premium, as are pupils who are currently in care. Pupil Premium is funding received from the Government with the aim of closing the gap in attainment between pupils from low income and disadvantaged families and their peers. At St. Richard’s, we are sensitive about our handling of support for pupils and offer discretion to parents/carers accessing this funding.
It is, therefore, vital that parents who qualify for FSM apply even if they do not wish to take up the offer of a free school meal.
Please see the qualifying criteria at the bottom of the page.