Dear parent/ carer,
Free School Meals at Leigh Academy Minster
Your child(ren) is eligible for Free School Meals and this is noted on our administrative systems for both the school and the catering company Cucina. Due to this, we are writing to all families who access this support to remind them on how the allowance is managed at the academy via some frequently asked questions.
How will my child access their FSM entitlement?All students will use their ParentPay account to access their free school meal entitlement, with this automatically added to the system each day to be used at lunch time using our biometric system. Other students will not know if another student receives Free School Meals using this approach.
When can my child use their FSM entitlement?
Students are able to use their FSM entitlement at breaktime and lunchtime. Leigh Academy Minster provides all students with a free breakfast of porridge in the academy restaurant from 8am till 8.25am each day.
What can my child purchase with their FSM entitlement?
Students are able to purchase a main meal and drink, or a hot/cold large snack item and drink. Following student feedback we have now expanded this item to also include items such as hot pasta pots and jacket potatoes and a selection of sides. Students also have the option to choose 4 items from the ‘Blue Dot Deal’ which offers them a selection of a sandwich roll, jelly, fruit and a drink. Students are not permitted to buy multiple cakes or sweet items in replacement of items stated above.
We have recently received a number of inquiries from parents regarding unexpected charges on student accounts. We would like to take this opportunity to clarify the Free School Meal process:
● Free School Meal Entitlement: The daily allowance covers a standard meal deal or specifi c items within the FSM threshold as listed above.
● Additional Charges: If students choose to purchase items that are not within the FSM entitlement (such as extra snacks, premium drinks, or second portions), these items will incur a cost.
In these instances, parents and carers will be charged for the balance. We encourage you to discuss this with your child to ensure they are aware of what is included in their daily allowance. There are also many signs displayed in the restaurant area to show and remind students of their entitlement, with our restaurant team also reminding students of this at the tills.
Am I able to add additional funds to my child’s Parent Pay account?
Yes, as the FSM entitlement is added separately. This means that students can use money any time on their account to purchase any additional items not stated in the above at breakfast, break or lunch times. To help you keep track of spending and ensure you aren’t surprised by charges, all individual purchases are itemised and viewable within your ParentPay account.
You can view the menu choices and more information about FSM on our website:
https://leighacademyminster.org.uk/academy-life/catering-and-free-school-meals/
If you have any queries or need any further help please contact the academy.
Yours faithfully,
Mr. M. Stevens
Principal
