Pupil Premium and Free School Meals

It is the ethos here at Ormiston Victory Academy, that all students, regardless of their socio-economic background, should have the chance to thrive and flourish both academically and personally within our academy. 

What is Pupil Premium (PP)?

The Pupil Premium is additional funding received by Ormiston Victory Academy to help improve the attainment of disadvantaged students. Students are eligible for Pupil Premium funding if:

  • they are currently eligible for Free School Meals (FSM) or have been eligible in the last 6 years (Ever 6 FSM)
  • they have been designated as a Looked After Child (LAC) for more than 6 months, including children who have now left care (for example children who have been adopted)
  • they are a child whose parents are currently serving in the armed forces

Is my child eligible for Free School meals (FSM)? 

From September 2026, the Government has expanded eligibility for benefits-related Free School Meals. Your child will be eligible for free school meals if you receive Universal Credit, regardless of your household earnings. The previous earnings threshold no longer applies. You may also qualify for Free School Meals (FSM) and other help if you receive certain other benefits or support.

There are two types of entitlement:

Targeted FSM: you receive Universal Credit and earn under £7,400 a year or another qualifying benefit (listed below): your children are entitled to FSM and extra support for their school via the Pupil Premium.

Other qualifying benefits:

  • Income-related Employment and Support Allowance
  • Support under Part 6 of the Immigration and Asylum Act 1999
  • The guaranteed element of Pension Credit

Families with No Recourse to Public Funds (NRPF) may also be eligible. Please use the separate application form, here, to apply for this.

Expanded FSM: if you earn above £7,400 your children will be entitled to FSM only.

How do families apply?

If you receive Universal Credit, or the other qualifying benefits listed, we encourage you to apply for Free School Meals.  Registering is quick and confidential and helps the academy secure valuable Pupil Premium funding that benefits your child throughout their education.

If you would like to check to see if you are eligible for free school meals, please visit the Norfolk County Council website to apply online. Alternatively, you can print this form (also available on the NCC website); your completed form should either be returned to the main academy office or sent to: Free School Meals, Norfolk County Council, Floor 8, County Hall, Norwich, NR1 2DL. Alternatively you can complete the online form here 

If you would like any support with the application process, please speak to Ms Bardwell or email her directly at [email protected]

What does it mean to be a PP student here at Ormiston Victory Academy?

  • Experience high quality teaching 
  • Support from the pastoral team to support with well being and progress 
  • Enrichment opportunities (trips, clubs, music lessons)
  • Academic Support (academic tutoring, VIP team, small group tuition) 
  • Careers appointments and support with  post 16 choices 

If you have any questions relating to any of the above, please email [email protected] for more support.

Click here to view our Pupil Premium Funding Strategy Statement 2025/2026