School dinners are provided by our school run kitchen in conjunction with CMC (Catering Management Consultants). Dinners are healthy and prepared using locally sourced food.
Dinner Menu
We offer a varied menu including a hot, cold and vegetarian option along with the choice of a jacket potato and sandwiches each and every day. Our menus are continually reviewed and adjusted to ensure the best possible choice for our children and the current menus run on a three week cycle. Current menu’s can be found on Arbor or alternatively please contact the school office for a copy of the three week menu.
Parents and carers should contact the school directly for allergen information for current school meal options; this information can be provided verbally or in writing. Please email office@st-joseph-st-theresa.staffs.sch.uk for further information.
We are able to cater for any dietary requirements, please contact the school office on 01543 227 220 to discuss your child’s needs.
Free School Meals
Did you know…
If you receive Universal Credit please complete a free school meals application – it is your child’s right and it may allow the school to unlock additional funding to support your child (pupil premium).
Apply here: Free School Meals Application Form – Fill in form
Following the introduction of Universal Free School Meals some parents who would be eligible for other entitlements for their children have stopped applying for funding. This is a terrible shame as with this funding children are entitled to enrichment activities and resources to further their education. If you find yourself in financial difficulties or out of work (even for a short period of time) your can apply for pupil premium: Pupil premium funding has helped to pay for things such as:
- School visits, trips and residential excursions
- ICT resources within the classroom
- School starter book bags
From September 2026, the Government is expanding eligibility for free school meals. This means that all children whose households receive Universal Credit will be entitled to free school meals, regardless of income level.
What does this mean for Families?
• Many more families will now be eligible for free school meals
• You could save around £475 per child per year on school lunches
• Your child will have access to a healthy meal each school day, supporting learning and wellbeing
Changes to Existing Protections
Currently, some children keep their FSM entitlement even if family circumstances change (known as transitional protection). From September 2026, these protections will end, and eligibility will be based on your current circumstances.
Understanding the Different Types of Free School Meals
From September 2026, there will effectively be two types of Free School Meals:
1. Targeted Free School Meals (with Pupil Premium funding attached)
• For families on Universal Credit with household earnings below £7,400 per year
• These pupils will continue to attract additional government funding for the school (Pupil Premium)
• This funding helps us provide extra support such as academic interventions, pastoral support, and contributions towards enrichment opportunities
2. Expanded Free School Meals (meal only)
• For families on Universal Credit above the £7,400 threshold
• These pupils will receive a free meal, but will not attract Pupil Premium funding
Why applying is still very important
Even if your child already receives a free meal, it is important that you register/apply if you are eligible. This is because:
• It ensures your child continues to receive their entitlement
• It helps us identify pupils who qualify for additional funding and support
• The school receives extra funding (Pupil Premium) for eligible pupils, which benefits teaching, resources, staff costs and wider support for children
What you need to do
If your household receives Universal Credit, you should apply. If you are unsure if you will qualify applying is quick and confidential so, please complete the form via the link below and your result will be communicated to you.
• Apply here: Free School Meals Application Form – Fill in form
If you have any questions or need any further assistance you can contact the school office and speak to Miss Palmer on 01543 227220.