Free school meal offer now extended to Full-time Nursery pupils

Full-time Nursery pupils in Bridgend County Borough are now eligible for free school meals, as the Universal Primary Free School Meal initiative continues to be rolled out to even more learners.

Previously, Year 3 pupils became eligible in September 2023, Year 1 and Year 2 pupils in April 2023 and Reception pupils in September 2022.

In line with Welsh Government requirements, the offer is scheduled to be further extended to Year 4 pupils in April 2024, and to Year 5 and Year 6 pupils from September 2024.

The scheme was launched by Welsh Government in 2022 to help families ease the burden of the cost-of-living crisis and over 7700 pupils are now eligible in Bridgend County Borough.

Cllr Jon-Paul Blundell, Cabinet Member for Education said: “It’s pleasing to see that this important initiative is continuing to be rolled out across the county borough, with more and more pupils becoming eligible.

“We know how difficult it is currently for families during the cost-of-living crisis. Universal primary free school meals provide significant financial help to families, while providing a nutritional meal to help children concentrate on learning.

“Once again, I would like to take this opportunity to thank all staff and schools in Bridgend County Borough for their continued support, and for their hard work in delivering this vital service.”

Parents and carers of all eligible pupils are reminded that there is no need to complete an application, as all eligible learners who opt for school dinners will automatically benefit from this offer.

However, the council would like to reiterate that families claiming benefits such as income support, should still claim free school meals for their child in the usual way as this helps families and local schools gain additional funding from national government. Universal Primary Free School Meals does not replace this benefit entitlement.

The local authority Catering Service is currently recruiting for additional cooks, assistant cooks, and relief kitchen assistants, who will be called for as and when required. Please visit the council’s website for more information on these and other current exciting job opportunities.