Pupils in Secondary Year One (S1) to Secondary Year Three (S3) in receipt of the Scottish Child Payment in Aberdeen will be entitled to free school meals from Monday 25 August.
The move is part of Aberdeen City Council’s commitment to tackle child poverty, as it joins the Scottish Government’s Test of Change Phase for Free School Meals (FSM), to expand access to nutritious, cost-free meals in secondary schools.
This initiative is a significant step in supporting families in need across the city with more than 1,400 young people expected to benefit – saving families approximately £450 per child per year – making a real difference to household budgets and wellbeing.
Councillor Martin Greig, convener of the Education and Children’s Services Committee, said: “Aberdeen City Council is committed to reducing child poverty and enhancing the lives of young people across the city, which is why we are pleased to support the Scottish Government’s initiative to extend free school meals to more of our young people.
“This is a meaningful step in tackling child poverty and ensuring that every pupil has the opportunity to thrive. By removing barriers to learning and wellbeing, we are investing in the future of Aberdeen’s young people.”
Councillor Jessica Mennie, vice-convener of the Education and Children’s Services Committee, said: “This expansion of free school meals is not just about food – it’s about fairness, dignity, and opportunity. We’re committed to making sure that all eligible families are supported without unnecessary bureaucracy, and that every young person receives a nutritious, sustainable meal that helps them to succeed.”
Full eligibility criteria for free school meals for S1-S3 pupils receiving the Scottish Child Payment can be found on the Council’s website via the Free School Meals and School Clothing Grant page. For details on how to apply for the Scottish Child Payment, please visit the Scottish Government website, click here for more information.
Improved data sharing mechanisms enables the Council to identify eligible families more efficiently to ensure that no young person misses this vital support.
Aberdeen City Council uses ParentPay, a secure online payment system, to manage school meals. Young people in S1-S3 who are entitled to free school meals will access their meals using their ParentPay PIN, just like their peers. This approach ensures that all pupils use the same system, helping to maintain privacy and reduce any perceived stigma around receiving free school meals.