Support for EYFS in primary schools

We have developed a new poster for parents to raise awareness of the link between Free School Meals and the Pupil Premium in schools. It explains why it is important parents register their child for Free School Meals and give details on how they can check for eligibility. 

Guidance on how the poster should be used:

• Schools can display the poster on a board in school and/or place it on their website for parents to access
• Parents can scan the QR code on the poster or follow the link to our Free School Meals webpage
• From there parents should apply online for Free School Meals
• They will need their National Insurance number, date of birth, name and child’s details and an eligibility check can be carried out 
• The online information and guidance will help parents to create a portal account and check for eligibility
• Early years providers/schools may need to support some parents in this process 

Top tips on working together to support children and families in relation to the Pupil Premium:

• Before children start in Year R, work with your feeder settings and childminders to identify children and families who may be likely to be eligible for Pupil Premium funding – it is your responsibility to ensure that, wherever possible, children do not miss out on funding they are entitled to.
• It is likely that EYPP children go on to be eligible for the Pupil Premium once they are in school but it is not 100% definite.
• Be aware that the funding works differently for the Early Years Pupil Premium (paid to early years providers) and the Pupil Premium (paid to schools) in how it is paid out, in relation to the eligibility criteria and in how eligibility is checked.
• Ask feeder settings/ childminders how they spent the EYPP funding for certain children – ask them what worked, what didn’t, what suggestions would they make in relation to continuing to support the child and family.
• Use the poster to instigate conversations with relevant families about the Pupil Premium in schools – decide between yourself and your feeder settings/childminders who will do this (ideally before the child starts school).
• Ensure all staff read the poster and are aware of the Pupil Premium, including how parents can check for eligibility.
• If parents express a request for support be sure to have systems in place.