AN extra 20,000 pupils in reception and years one and two in West Sussex have enjoyed daily school meals free of charge, thanks to the Government’s universal infant free school meal scheme since September 2014.

Also, around 4,500 infant and primary aged children whose parents receive certain state income benefits have continued to receive free school meals (FSM).

As well as these children receiving FSM, the schools they attend have also received extra funding, known as “pupil premium”.

The pupil premium is used to support children at school and to help boost their achievements. Schools decide how best to spend the pupil premium fund.

This will usually include extra staff and classes to help pupils with their learning, and might include contributions to such things as the cost of school trips, buying school equipment and even helping to subsidise school uniform.

Christine Field, West Sussex County Council acting member for education, said: “I would encourage all parents who are currently in receipt of certain state income benefits, and whose children would therefore qualify for free school meals, to register with us.

“But I particularly want to remind those parents of children in reception and years one and two, who receive such benefits, to make sure that they still register with us.

“Because they automatically receive meals free of charge under the Universal Infant Free School Meal initiative, they may not realise that their school is missing out on a significant amount of funding if they fail to register with us.

“Simply filling in a form could unlock £1,320 in funding per child, per year for their school.

“This funding can make a big difference to schools and their pupils so I would urge parents to check if they can help.”

For further information regarding FSM eligibility and to register online go to www.westsussex.gov.uk and search for “free school meals”.