Yewstock School and Dorset Council are encouraging families who qualify to take up the Free School Meals (FSM) offer. Even if your child doesn’t eat the daily nutritious free school meal, Yewstock would still benefit from extra Government Pupil Premium funding for every qualifying student that takes up the FSM offer. The quick and easy online application form is available here www.dorsetcouncil.gov.uk/free-school-meals

Many families have experienced change in their finances recently and may be unaware they are now eligible for free school meals, or they may feel uncomfortable claiming them. The eligibility checking service provided by Dorset Council is confidential and families usually do not need to submit paper evidence to apply. Yewstock School will not see any information about the income or the benefits a family receives.

Universal infant free school meals – All children in Reception, Year 1 and Year 2 automatically get free school meals. However, parents who are in receipt of qualifying benefits may not realise they should apply separately for Pupil Premium funding for their school as it is not paid automatically. This additional Government funding supports children who may be vulnerable to underachievement and goes towards additional teaching staff, tuition and activities. For further details and to access the quick application form, click here www.dorsetcouncil.gov.uk/pupil-premium