More cash on the plate for free school meals in Wales
Universal Primary Free School Meals across Wales are to benefit from an estimated additional £8 million investment over the next two years, with the price spent per meal rising from £3.20 to £3.40.
Since the rollout began in 2022, 57 million meals have been served to primary school pupils across Wales.
The increase in funding means Wales will continue to offer the highest per-meal rate in the UK for providing nutritious free meals in schools.
Cabinet Secretary for Education, Lynne Neagle, confirmed the uplift, saying it reflects the government’s commitment to supporting families and tackling child poverty.
She said: “Universal Primary Free School Meals, alongside our targeted free meal offer in secondary schools, means that two thirds of learners in Wales can access a free school meal at lunchtime every day.
“We understand that costs are rising, and we want to ensure local authorities are supported.
“Ending child poverty remains an absolute priority for the Welsh Government and our commitment to Universal Primary Free School Meals shows just how serious we are about giving every child the best possible start in life.”
Wales remains the only UK nation to offer universal free school meals to all primary learners. Families are also being encouraged to check if they qualify for further help through the Get help with school costs initiative, which includes the School Essentials Grant for uniforms and classroom items.
Additional funding is also provided to schools through the Pupil Development Grant for learners eligible for free school meals.
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