If you’re aged 16–19 (or up to 25 with an EHCP) and your family gets certain benefits, you might be able to get free school meals while you’re at college.
For help and advice with bursaries, please email us at [email protected]
What is the Free Meals Scheme?
The government helps students in further education by giving one free meal per day when you’re in college or training. It’s to help you eat well while learning, and means you don’t have to stress about bringing lunch money.
At Central Training Academy, we go one step further:
- ✅ Eligible learners can claim up to £5 per day towards meals
- ✅ This is paid a week in arrears (you’ll need to keep your receipts)
Each training provider may run their scheme differently. If you’re not a Central learner, be sure to check with your college or provider for their exact rules and payment process.
Read the full government guidance here: Gov.uk: Free Meals in Further Education (2025–26)
Who Can Get Free Meals at College?
You may be eligible if:
✅ You’re 16–18 on 31 August 2025
✅ Or aged 19–25 with an EHCP
✅ You’re on a government-funded course (not an apprenticeship)
✅ Your parent or carer receives one of these:
- Income Support
- Universal Credit (low income)
- Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance
- Child Tax Credit (without Working Tax Credit)
- Support under the Immigration and Asylum Act
If you’ve been receiving free meals since before April 2018, you may still qualify under transitional protection, so it’s still worth applying even if you’re not sure.
How Do I Apply?
Each provider has their own process. At Central Training Academy, we’ll support you through it – just speak to your tutor or the student support team at enrolment or induction. You’ll usually be emailed a short form and asked to show proof of benefits (e.g. a Universal Credit letter).
What Do I Get?
🎟️ A free meal or reimbursement worth at least £2.61 – but at Central, it’s up to £5/day
📅 You get support for each day you attend
🧾 At Central receipts are required for repayment
📍Other providers may offer vouchers, campus meals, or different amounts
Quick Questions
Can apprentices get this?
No – apprentices are not eligible for this scheme, but they may qualify for a different bursary. Learn more about the Apprenticeship Care Leavers Bursary
What if I only attend 2 days a week?
You get meal support on each day you’re in. So if you attend 2 days a week, you are entitled to meals on both of those days.
What if I have dietary needs?
Colleges must make reasonable adjustments for dietary requirements.
What To Do Next
✅ Ask your tutor or support team about the free meals scheme
✅ Apply early. Bring benefit letters or UC statements
✅ Attend college! You only get support on days you’re in
✅ At Central, keep your receipts to claim your £5/day back
Need More Support?
Check out our other financial help options:
Still unsure? Contact us here and we’ll help you check your eligibility.
To apply a bursary with Central Training Academy, please:
1. Request a ‘Bursary Fund Application Form’ from your tutor or email [email protected]
2. Complete the form and gather supporting evidence
3. Hand it in to the college at any of our centres along with the supporting evidence
