Is your child entitled to free school meals?

One of the things I remember vividly about my school days was sitting down in the canteen with my friends for lunch - and the puddings!

But is your child eligible for free school meals? Kingston Council has recently launched a campaign encouraging families to register their school-age children for free school meals.

And if you qualify, you could save up to £500 per year off school meal costs (per child). Free school meals are available to children whose parents are in receipt of certain benefits, and if your household income is less than £16,190, it is highly likely that your child is entitled. 

School meals have changed over the years and the importance of children eating well should not be under-estimated. Meals now include a wide variety of fresh vegetables and salads alongside traditional favourites and modern classics, as well as vegetarian options. Your child's friends will not know that they are on free school meals, only the school office will know. 

Applications can be made online at the Council's website, at your child's school or at the Council offices. Call the Council information and advice centre on 020 8547 5004, email freeschoolmeals@rbk.kingston.gov.uk or see kingston.gov.uk/school_meals

What are your school meal memories, and what do you and your child think of school meals nowadays? We'd love to know!