Children: School, Nursery, Meals

• ALL children aged 5-16 must attend school — regardless of immigration status
• Contact your local council admissions: gov.uk/apply-for-primary-school-place
• Documents: birth certificate (if available), address
• A school CANNOT refuse a child because of immigration status
• If your child is 16-18 — sixth form or college, also free

Free hot meals at school.

• Who qualifies: families on Universal Credit, asylum seekers (on Section 95)
• How to apply: through your local council or school
• Also entitles the school to Pupil Premium (additional funding for the school)

• 15 hours/wk — for ALL 3-4 year olds (universal)
• 30 hours/wk — if you work (8+ hours/wk, earning min wage)
• 15 hours — for 2 year olds, if on UC or asylum seekers
• How to get it: gov.uk/childcare-calculator
• Tax-Free Childcare: up to £2,000/year per child

• Many councils offer uniform grants: £50-150
• Apply at your local council (school clothing grant)
• Some charities also provide help
• The school may give second-hand uniform for free

EAL = English as an Additional Language

• The school is required to provide additional support
• Dedicated EAL teacher or teaching assistant
• Adjustment period: usually 2-3 months
• Don't keep your child out of school because of language — the school will help

Everything is free for children under 18.

• Vaccinations: through GP or school (school nurse)
• Dentist: free under 18, find one at nhs.uk/find-a-dentist
• Optician: free sight test + glasses (NHS voucher)
• Prescriptions: free under 16 (or under 19 if in full-time education)

Every child is protected by UK law.

• Schools are required to report suspicions of abuse
• If there is a problem: Childline 0800 1111 (free, confidential)
• NSPCC: 0808 800 5000
• Social services: through your local council