School Meals at Stocksbridge High School

At Stocksbridge High School, our catering is provided by Taylor Shaw, part of the Elior Group, which specialises in offering fresh, healthy food. Taylor Shaw is a leading UK education caterer, committed to providing freshly prepared meals that support young people’s wellbeing in their learning environment.

If your child has specific dietary requirements, please inform Taylor Shaw, and they will accommodate them wherever possible.

We believe good nutrition is key to effective teaching and learning. To support this, we offer a mid-morning break service and lunch daily.

Free School Meals (FSM)

Free school meals ensure eligible children receive at least one balanced meal daily. All pupils, whether paying or on FSM, have access to the same wide variety of options, including:

- Hot meals

- Filled jacket potatoes and baguettes

- Fresh fruit

- Packed lunches (upon request)

Biometric Cashless System

Our **Biometric Cashless System** makes dining at school efficient and inclusive. Each student has a personalised account with these key benefits:

- Discreet FSM access**: Free school meal recipients are not identifiable, reducing stigma.

- Convenience**: No need for cash, minimising the risk of loss.

- Transparency**: Parents can monitor spending and meal choices.

- Custom restrictions**: Parents can set spending limits or restrict purchases, including allergen management.

Free School Meals - Eligibility

If you meet the criteria below, your child could benefit from free school meals. This also helps the school access additional funding.

Eligibility Criteria

Your child must:

- Attend a local authority school or sixth form full-time

- Be under 19 years old

You may qualify if you receive:

- Universal Credit** (with net earnings ≤ £7,400 annually)

- Income Support

- Income-Based Jobseeker’s Allowance

- Income-Related Employment Support Allowance

- Support under Part VI of the Immigration and Asylum Act 1999

- The Guaranteed Element of State Pension Credit

- Child Tax Credit** (household income < £16,190 annually and not receiving Working Tax Credit)

- Working Tax Credit Run-On** (for 4 weeks after eligibility ends)

 Important Notes:

- Children eligible for FSM as of 1 April 2018 retain this entitlement during the Universal Credit rollout, even if household income increases above the threshold.

- Once Universal Credit is fully implemented, FSM recipients will retain their benefits until they complete their current education phase (primary or secondary).

For more details, visit the Sheffield City Council website