Overview

This bill aims to provide free school meals to children over 16 attending colleges in England and Wales, aligning their provision with that of younger students in schools, academies, and free schools.

Description

The Free School Meals (Children over the age of 16) Bill amends the Education Act 1996. Specifically, it adds "or general further education and sixth form college" to the list of institutions eligible for government funding to provide meals under section 512. This ensures that students aged 16 and over attending colleges receive the same access to free school meals as their younger peers in other educational settings.

Government Spending

The bill will lead to increased government spending. The exact figure is not specified in the bill itself, but it will cover all expenditure incurred by the Secretary of State under the act, as well as any increase in sums payable under other acts related to providing free school meals.

Groups Affected

The main group affected are students aged 16 and over attending colleges in England and Wales. They will benefit from the introduction of free school meals. Colleges will also be affected, as they will be responsible for administering the meal provision. The UK government will experience an increase in expenditure as a result of the bill.

Powered by nyModel