Wales becomes first country in UK to offer free school meals
Every child up to and including Year 6 is now able to receive a free school meal every school day
The rollout of the program across Wales is now complete, ensuring that every child up to and including Year 6 can receive a free school meal each school day.
This commitment, introduced by the Welsh Government in 2021 as part of its strategy to combat child poverty, has provided nearly 30 million meals.
The latest expansion extends free school meal eligibility to an additional 176,000 learners.
Th Welsh Government believe this scheme will help to reduce health inequalities, encourage healthy eating, and improve social skills, behaviour, and academic performance.
Local authorities have also been encouraged to source food locally where possible.
Efforts are currently underway to review regulations regarding the types of food and drink offered during the school day, including the nutritional standards for school lunches.
First Minster, Eluned Morgan said:
"A healthy school meal is vital in ensuring that no child feels hungry during the school day, helping their concentration and wellbeing and enabling them to achieve their full potential.
"Free school meals are also providing welcome support to families and helping tackle child poverty.
"This is a momentous occasion for children here in Wales. I’m incredibly proud that Wales has become the first UK nation to offer free school meals to all primary pupils. "
Cabinet Secretary for Education, Lynne Neagle said:
"We are ensuring that no primary school child will go hungry at school, and I am thankful for our local authorities and schools for helping to make this a reality.
"I have seen the difference that this offer has already made for children and families firsthand.
"This is an important step we have taken to tackle child poverty, and I will continue to work to make certain that we have the best school food offer in the UK."