The Welsh Government has announced an expansion of free school meals for secondary school pupils, removing the current earnings threshold that limits eligibility. Under the existing rules, secondary learners qualify only if their family receives Universal Credit and household earnings are below £7,400, excluding benefits. That cap will now be abolished, extending support to more families.
Funding and Implementation
The change was revealed ahead of Tuesday's supplementary budget, where Plaid Cymru will allocate approximately £300 million from unallocated funds in last year's £27.5 billion budget. The free school meals expansion will receive £15 million in total, split between £10 million in capital funding for school kitchen and dining area improvements and £5 million in revenue funding to introduce the scheme. All primary school children in Wales already receive universal free school meals.
Ministerial Statement
Education Minister Anna Brychan said: "This funding marks the first step in our commitment to extend free school meals to more secondary pupils, ensuring that support reaches families who need it most. By starting to invest, we are laying the foundations for a fair and sustainable expansion that will make a real difference in pupils’ daily lives." She added: "This work is about removing barriers to learning and supporting wellbeing. We know that access to nutritious food improves concentration, attainment and overall health. Building on the success of universal primary free school meals, we will ensure that as children move into secondary education those who need it most will continue to receive the support they need to thrive."
Next Steps
The Welsh Government said it is working with partners to deliver the expansion effectively and at pace, with further details to be announced shortly. The move is part of a broader commitment to tackle child poverty and improve educational outcomes across Wales.
