September 2013
Dear Parents and Carers DID YOU KNOW ……….. JUST REGISTERING YOUR CHILD FOR FREE SCHOOL MEALS MEANS THAT THE SCHOOL GETS EXTRA MONEY?? REGISTER NOW TO MAKE SURE WALLASEY SCHOOL DOESN’T MISS OUT!
The Government is giving money to schools to help children eligible for Free School Meals (FSMs) do their very best. This funding is called a ‘Pupil Premium’.
For every child registered as eligible for FSMs, Wallasey School gets £900 this year. This additional money is used to provide support or equipment for the school.
Please register as soon as possible to make sure your child doesn’t miss out. This is vital if your child is to benefit. Please note that if your son / daughter / ward was in Year 11 last academic year and has moved into our Sixth Form this year, then you must re-apply if you believe they are entitled to FSMs. All other year groups roll through year on year, depending of course on your personal circumstances.
How does it work? First, check if you qualify. Please look at the list on the next page. Registering is really quick and easy. If you think you qualify, please ring 0151 606 2002 (you will need your National Insurance number) and the Council will help you register. If you want your child to have a free, healthy meal at lunchtime that’s great – they will get this free meal (saving you more than £350 a year). If you don’t want your child to have the school meal, they can continue as normal. As long as you qualify and are registered, the school still gets the extra funding that will support your child’s learning and progress.
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Please note that the administration of school meals in all schools is handled sensitively, so that no child feels singled out or embarrassed about the situation. If you are eligible to apply and haven’t already done so, I would urge you to do so. If you are not sure, please ring the Helpline on 0151 606 2002 and they will be happy to help you. Yours faithfully
Amanda Cawood Headteacher
Geoff Dunn Chair of Governors
Do you qualify? You can register your child for Free School Meals if you get any of these benefits: Income Support Income-based Jobseeker's Allowance Income-related Employment and Support Allowance Support under Part VI of the Immigration and Asylum Act 1999 The Guarantee element of State Pension Credit Child Tax Credit, provided they are not entitled to Working Tax Credit and have an annual income (as assessed by HM Revenue & Customs) that does not exceed £16,190
Pupils can also register for Free School Meals if they get any of these benefits themselves. If you’re not sure or would like further information, please contact Mr J Davies at school who co-ordinates our school FSMs.