Free school meals for school children in Years 1-2 in Bridgend

By Lewis Smith

SCHOOLCHILDREN in Years 1 and 2 in Bridgend county borough are set to receive free school meals next month.

The scheme is a part of the Welsh Government’s commitment for every primary school pupil in Wales to receive a free school meal by 2024, though parents will not have to apply.

Free meals for pupils in Years 1 and 2 will begin from April 17 – the start of the summer term – after reception classes started receiving them in 2022.

It means that more than 4,700 learners across the borough will now be eligible for universal primary free school meals in the area, with councillors praising the move.

Cllr Jon-Paul Blundell said: “How wonderful it is that the local authority is supporting families in this way? It is so important to make it clear that the free school meal offer is for all infant school pupils, regardless of family circumstances.

“In addition to reception pupils, who have benefited from this initiative since September 2022, all Year 1 and Year 2 pupils will automatically benefit from the provision, so there is no application process for parents and carers to complete.

“I want to take this opportunity to thank Bridgend County Borough Council staff and schools for their continued hard work to deliver this vital service.”