Is your child eligible for free school meals and holiday activities?

Families are being encouraged to check whether they might be eligible to receive a free daily lunch at school, potentially saving families up to £450 per year. 

Dorset children who receive free school meals can also take part in free activities during the school holidays (not including half-terms) through the Holiday Activities and Food Programme (HAF).  

School children in reception, year 1 and year 2 automatically receive universal infant free school meals.  

However, parents/carers who receive qualifying benefits still are encouraged to apply for free school meals when their child starts school.   

This will secure additional support for eligible families including free holiday activities, as well as generating pupil premium funding for the school.  

To apply for free school meals, and to check the eligibility criteria, see Apply for free school meals - Dorset Council. 

Families will automatically receive the access code for HAF when they sign up for free school meals. 

Anyone who has lost their code can email: holidayactivities@dorsetcouncil.gov.uk 

Cllr Clare Sutton, Dorset Council Cabinet Member for Children Services, Education and Skills said:  

“It’s important that eligible children have daily access to nutritious meals at school. I would encourage families to explore their children’s eligibility for this essential service.  

“The HAF programme is a fantastic initiative, and it’s definitely worth making sure your child can access it.”