The UPFSM Interim Report: What Welsh School Leaders Need to Know (and Do Next)

By FIG Consultancy Ltd

The Welsh Government recently published its Interim Report on the Evaluation of the Universal Primary Free School Meals (UPFSM) Policy. For school leaders across Wales, the report offers a crucial temperature check on how the rollout has landed, what is working well, and where the pressure points lie.

While the policy has been widely welcomed for its potential to reduce stigma and support families through the cost-of-living crisis, the reality on the ground is complex. From chaotic lunch halls to falling eFSM registrations, the report highlights several unintended consequences that require proactive management.

Here is a breakdown of the key findings from the report and, more importantly, what they mean for your school.

1. The Uptake Challenge: A Mixed Picture

The report reveals that by July 2024, the average uptake of UPFSM across Wales was 69%, with significant variation between Local Authorities (ranging from 57% to 82%). Unsurprisingly, uptake is highest among younger learners who have experienced the universal offer throughout their school life. However, engaging older learners (Years 5 and 6) remains a persistent challenge.

What this means for schools:

Simply offering a free meal is not enough to guarantee participation. Schools need to actively market their catering offer. The report notes that schools employing proactive strategies, such as taster sessions, pre-order apps, and peer-led initiatives like 'Lunch Crews' see higher engagement. If your uptake is stagnating, it may be time to review your menu appeal, how you cater to cultural and dietary needs, and how effectively you are communicating with parents and carers.

2. The Unintended Consequence: Falling eFSM Registrations

Perhaps the most concerning finding for school leaders is the reported drop in parents and carers registering for income-related Free School Meals (eFSM), Because meals are now universally free, many families mistakenly believe they no longer need to apply or are not as engaged with the school as they need to be

What this means for schools:

This misunderstanding poses a direct threat to school funding. eFSM data is a primary driver for the Pupil Development Grant (PDG), which funds vital resources for disadvantaged learners. The report recommends that schools implement targeted communication strategies to ensure families understand that eFSM status unlocks additional benefits, such as uniform grants and subsidised school trips. Renaming or reframing how you talk about eFSM to parents could be a critical step in protecting your budget.

3. The Lunchtime Squeeze: Environment and Workload

The success of UPFSM has placed immense pressure on school infrastructure and staff. The report highlights that larger schools, in particular, are experiencing longer queues, rushed eating, and more chaotic dining environments. This not only impacts learner wellbeing but also exacerbates food waste, as children are hurried or served meals they do not have time to enjoy.

Furthermore, catering and supervisory staff are feeling the strain. Increased meal volumes, coupled with a sharp rise in complex dietary requirements, have led to increased workloads, stress, and retention issues.

What this means for schools:

The lunchtime experience needs a strategic rethink. The report recommends practical measures such as improving dining room layouts, staggering lunchtimes, and introducing structured seating arrangements to create a calmer, more inclusive environment. Additionally, school leaders must review their workforce planning to ensure catering teams are adequately supported and resourced to manage the increased demand safely.

4. Looking Ahead: The New Healthy Eating Regulations

While not the central focus of the interim report, it is important to note that revised Healthy Eating Regulations for maintained nursery and primary schools are due to come into effect in 2026. The report suggests that UPFSM is most effective when embedded within a whole-school approach to food—aligning the curriculum, the dining experience, and the school's ethos.

What this means for schools:

Now is the time to prepare. Reviewing your current food policy, procurement practices, and curriculum links will ensure you are not caught off guard when the new regulations are implemented. Integrating food education into the school day can also help normalise healthy choices and support sustained behaviour change among learners.

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Authors Opinion

Whilst there has always been a divided debate about the Healthy Eating Regulations, and its predecessor "Appetite for Life", about how and should the guidance be rigidly followed - (compliance certification is voluntary, and overall compliance is rarely monitored effectively), there is strong evidence that supports that children that have eaten healthily at lunchtime are more engaged, and perceptive during lessons than those where standards are treated as optional.

Having managed school meals in a welsh authority that was fully compliant to the welsh healthy eating standards, across all primary and secondary schools, there was a greater collaborative spirit among school communities- (schools, parents, governors and pupils). It was hard initially, but once achieved the benefits were very clear.

How FIG Consultancy Ltd Can Help

Navigating the complexities of the UPFSM rollout requires time, resource, and strategic focus—commodities that are often in short supply for busy school leaders. At FIG Consultancy Ltd, we specialise in helping Welsh schools turn policy challenges into operational successes.

We are here to help.

Contact us today to arrange a free initial consultation and discover how we can support your school to maximise the benefits of the UPFSM policy.