Pupil Premium and Expanded Free School Meals
What is Expanded Free School Meals?
All children in Reception, Year 1 and Year 2 are automatically entitled to Free School meals provided by the Department for Education, but from September 2026, Free School meals will be expanded to include children from any family in receipt of Universal Credit.
How is Pupil Premium different?
The Pupil Premium describes additional funding provided to schools to support disadvantaged children who are vulnerable to possible underachievement to improve educational outcomes. To accurately identify these children, the Department for Education is targeting families in receipt of Universal Credit who have earnings of less than £7,400 per year. Pupils from families who fall into this group are entitled to free school meals PLUS additional funding for their school to improve their educational outcomes. At Our Lady of the Rosary, disadvantaged children also have access to: one free after-school club run by the school, e.g. Dance club; two free breakfast clubs a week; support with school uniform; and half-price school trips.
This group of children also includes those looked after by the local authority and those who have been adopted but who were formerly looked after.
Pupil Premium Strategy
Parents and carers can be reassured that we monitor the impact of Pupil Premium funding carefully. We review progress regularly, evaluate what is working, and adjust approaches where necessary.
Are you eligible for Pupil Premium?
If you believe your child may be eligible, please use the Pupil Premium Checker below or contact the school office so we can guide you through the relevant checks and ensure your child receives the support they are entitled to.