Help with School Costs

If you're on a low income, you might be able to get help with some of the costs of sending your child to school.

Free school meals

Your child will automatically get free school meals if they're in reception class or year 1 or 2.

If they’re in year 3 or above, you can apply for free school meals if you receive Universal Credit.

Currently if you are in receipt of Universal Credit your annual income needs to be below £7,400 a year net.  However, from the start of academic year 2026 to 2027, your child will qualify for free school meals if you get Universal Credit, regardless of household income.  You can apply using the following link - https://www.kent.gov.uk/education-and-children/schools/free-school-meals/apply-for-free-school-meals

Holiday Activities and Food Programme (HAFP)

If your child is aged 4-16 and is eligible for benefit-related free school meals, they’ll also qualify for the HAFP which offers free activities in the Easter, summer and Christmas holidays.  You can find out more about this scheme via the following link https://www.kent.gov.uk/education-and-children/schools/free-school-meals/holiday-activities-and-food-programme-haf

Help with School Uniform

Kent County Council is unable to support with the cost of school uniforms.  We would suggest contacting your child’s school if you are struggling with the cost of uniform, you may find information about second hand uniform on the school website.

Help with school transport costs

Your primary school aged child is entitled to council funded school transport if they meet all the following criteria.

• They are over 8 years old.

• They go to the nearest school suitable for their age and ability.

• They live between 2 and 6 miles from the school (between 2 and 15 miles for faith schools).

• They are entitled to free school meals or your family receives certain benefits.

Your secondary school aged child is entitled to council funded school transport if they meet all of the following criteria.

·         They go to 1 of the 3 nearest schools suitable for their age and ability.

·         They live between 2 and 6 miles from school (or between 2 and 15 miles for faith schools).

·         They are entitled to free school meals or your family receives certain benefits

You can find out more on the kent.gov.uk website and search for school transport.

If your child is in years 7-11 you could apply for a KCC Travel Saver – the cost of this will depend upon your circumstances. You can find out more and apply on the following link https://www.kent.gov.uk/education-and-children/schools/school-transport/KCC-travel-saver/apply-for-a-KCC-travel-saver

If you are struggling with the costs associated with the new school year, please get in touch and we can carry out a benefit check for you based on your circumstances and assess whether there is any other additional support available for you.  PWCAC is OPEN for face-to-face advice (appointments and drop-ins) Monday to Friday, 9:30 – 1:30.

info@pwadvice.org | 01892 838619    94 Commercial Road, Paddock Wood, TN12 6DP