Children from lower income families and students at FE college and sixth form will get free school meal provision this May half term. An estimated 4,000 older learners and 115,000 younger pupils are expected to benefit from the scheme.
Funding for eligible school aged children is through the Welsh Government and Plaid Cymru cooperation agreement.
In 2020 Wales became the first UK nation to guarantee free school meals for eligible families during the school holidays. Individual councils decide how to administer the free meal provision. Some make lunches which are delivered or collected, some provide vouchers or direct payments to families. A similar system will be in place for eligible FE students.
Education Minister Jeremy Miles, said: “It’s vital that children and young people are able to enjoy their school holidays and that we help take pressure off families who are struggling with the cost of living. I’m pleased we’ve been able to further extend this support for learners in schools and colleges. I would encourage families to find out if they can apply for this support with their Local Authority.”
Plaid Cymru’s Designated Member, Sian Gwenllian, said: “Eligible school pupils having access to free school meals during the May half term will provide real help to many as the cost-of-living crisis continues to bite. I am proud that by working together we have made sure that learners have support when the school doors close for the May holidays.”
