All primary pupils in Wales will be offered free school meals from the start of term next week. The Welsh Government has confirmed that all 22 local education authorities are either already providing or ready to offer free school meals for their pupils. Universal free school meals for primary school-aged children in Wales began with the youngest pupils in September 2022, with some councils making the offer well ahead of the target date of September 2024.
The initiative extends to all primary school children and over 6,000 nursery-age pupils attending maintained schools. This move was part of the now-defunct Co-operation Agreement between the Welsh Government and Plaid Cymru. Many councils have invested millions in upgrading school kitchens to serve meals to tens of thousands of primary school students. Some schools, such as Monmouth High and St Martin’s School in Caerphilly, have even funded free breakfasts for older children.
While the rollout of free school meals has been praised for helping families amid the cost-of-living crisis, concerns have been raised about portion sizes and availability of fruits and vegetables. Children’s Commissioner Rocio Cifuentes highlighted that some pupils feel portions are too small. Teachers have also expressed worries about increasing numbers of hungry students who struggle to concentrate in class, emphasising the importance of school meals for many children.
Swansea Council, which has invested over £4m in improving school kitchens, underscored the significance of providing meals for disadvantaged children, benefiting more than 18,000 pupils. The council’s education cabinet member, Robert Smith, acknowledged the Welsh Government’s support in delivering this initiative. Families do not need to apply for the free school meal offer as they will be automatically enrolled at their schools. Low-income families can also apply for the Schools Essentials Grant to cover uniform costs and other expenses.
The Welsh government reaffirmed its commitment to providing free school meals to all primary school pupils, ensuring that children have access to a nutritious meal during the school day.