All children in Reception/EYFS, Yr 1 and Yr 2 are entitled to a free school meal, under Universal Free School Meal provision.

 

2026 UPDATE  Please see following notice of increase in school meal prices from Brighton Council School Meals Team..

 

Dear Parent/Carer,

 

Primary School Meals – Price Increase from 01 September 2026

 

I am writing to advise you that the cost of school meals will increase from the September 2026. This is due to increased food and labour costs. The cost of a meal will be £2.95 per day for pupil paid meals or £14.75 per week from 1st September 2026.

 

For Nursery pupils the cost of a meal from 1st September 2026 will be £2.70 per day or £13.50 per week.

 

We’re extremely sorry to have to take this action, but without a price rise schools would face further financial pressures impacting the amount of money available for education.

 

The school meals contractor, Caterlink, will continue to provide high quality ingredients to the expected standards such as Red Tractor standard meat, sustainable fish and local free-range eggs meeting the Soil Associations Silver Food for Life Accreditation. A vegan option is also available on a daily basis.

 

The Government has expanded eligibility for free school meals from September 2026. All families in receipt of Universal Credit will be eligible. If you are not already registered for benefits related Free School Meals and receive Universal Credit, please apply as soon as possible in advance of September.

 

Apply for free school meals

 

If you have any queries regarding this letter, then please email using this address schoolmeals@brighton-hove.gov.uk