Applications and transfers
Children joining your school in-year
East Sussex schools
Please tell us when a child transfers from another East Sussex school and the Common Transfer File shows they qualify for free school meals. We will amend their attendance and verify that they are eligible. Do not ask parents to apply.
Out-of-area schools
Give free school meals to children coming from an out-of-area school where the Common Transfer File indicates they qualify.
Complete the Movers in form [77.6 KB] [docx]
This is so we can create a database record and ensure reports are accurate.
New applications for free school meals
We cannot process new applications by phone.
Online applications
Ask parents to use the Parent Portal to apply for free meals online. This is the same system they use to apply for school places.
Paper applications
If the parent is unable to apply online, they should complete the free school meal application form [89.5 KB] [docx].
Scan the form and email it to FreeSchoolMeals@eastsussex.gov.uk with the child’s name in the subject field.
Send each application in a separate email so we can track individual cases. We cannot process multiple applications sent in one pdf or in one email.
Younger siblings of children who are entitled
Younger siblings do not automatically qualify for free meals, even if an older sibling does. This is because transitional protections may be in place for the older child.
All new requests require an application.
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