Headteachers say families will struggle after another rise in school dinner prices

Families are facing higher school meal costs after the price of a paid-for dinner in primary and special schools rose again. Headteachers have warned that the increase could make it harder for some households to manage the cost of school meals.

Meal costs increase during 2026

The latest rise takes the price of a paid school dinner from £2.60 to £3.40. That represents a total increase of £0.80 since the start of 2026.

The change applies to paid-for dinners in primary schools and special schools. The information supplied does not specify the date of the latest increase or identify the schools involved.

Headteachers raise concern over families

Headteachers say the higher cost could place additional pressure on families. Their concern centres on the effect of repeated school dinner price increases on households that pay for meals.

The rise highlights the direct cost of school food for families using paid meal services. No further details about planned price changes or support for affected households have been provided.