School Meals – Price Increase
Dear Parents and Carers,
I am writing to you today with an update regarding the catering arrangements at Hanham Woods Academy.
As you may know, our school meals are provided by Aspens Services. This company operates across the majority of schools within the Cabot Learning Federation, and feedback on Aspens’ meals has been good. We are committed to working with Aspens to ensure our Academy continues to offer nutritious, diverse, and culturally inclusive meals, including vegetarian and vegan options, school favourites, and dishes inspired by global cuisines.
For the past 2.5 years, the price of a school meal has remained at £2.40. We have been able to achieve this despite the cost of food, staffing, and other essential services rising substantially. However, following a detailed review of our catering provision, we have found the current pricing no longer covers the cost of these high-quality meals.
From 16th June 2025, the price of a school meal will therefore increase to £2.75, along with a 5% increase on the tariff. This new price has been decided following a thorough benchmarking review of operating costs and service sustainability and will ensure we can fulfil our priority ambition of offering high-quality, nutritious, and good value meals for our students, without eating into school funds which are essential to educating our students.
We understand that any increase in expenses can be a concern for families, and we are doing everything we can to keep meals at an affordable level while also preserving high standards.
Free School Meals
If your child is eligible for Free School Meals, they will continue to receive meals. You may qualify if you receive any of the following:
- Income support
- Income-based Jobseekers Allowance
- Income-related Employment and Support Allowance
- Support under Part VI of the Immigration and Asylum Act 1999
- The guaranteed element of State Pension Credit
- Child Tax Credit (without Working Tax Credit and income below £16,190)
- Working Tax Credit run-on (for 4 weeks after stopping eligibility)
- Universal Credit (with household income under £7,400/year after tax)
How to apply
Applying is quick and confidential. Visit https://www.gov.uk/apply-free-school-meals If you need help, please contact your school office for support.
If you have any questions or concerns, please don’t hesitate to contact us through the usual school channels.
Kind regards
Mr Chris Ballard | Academy Principal
