At Fortis Academy, we realise the importance of a high-quality diet to provide the fuel for learning. Our professional onsite catering team provide a wide range of delicious dishes to cater for all tastes. This includes daily full-plate specials at a very competitive rate, a selection of grab-and-go hot and cold meals, many different desserts and a wide range of drinks to purchase, as well as free access to drinking water. 

The main serving area in the Great Hall has ample space for students to select and eat their food in a civilised setting, seated at tables. Sixth Form students have their own refectory where they can enjoy a meal in their own purpose-built annex. However, for students who prefer to eat on the go there are plenty of locations around the school for students to eat, including picnic tables across Senior and Foundation Academy and the Sixth Form. 

Food is available at break and lunchtime, and lists of allergens and halal status are clearly visible to students selecting food. This information is also available on request from the catering staff. 

Fortis Academy uses a cashless biometric system for payment, which links to the family Parent Pay account. This is quick, convenient and safe – students are not required to remember a PIN or to carry cash. Indeed, we do not accept cash for any purpose at Fortis Academy. 

 

Free School Meals

Depending on family circumstances, you may be eligible for Free School Meals. If you are, your child will have an amount added to their school meals account which will allow them to select a meal from our serveries every day. Our chef designs a broad menu of nutritious, tasty food so that students receiving Free School Meals can enjoy a two-course meal every day. 

As of September 2022, families can apply for Free School Meals (according to the Government’s website) if they receive: 

  • Income Support 
  • income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance 
  • income-related Employment and Support Allowance 
  • support under Part VI of the Immigration and Asylum Act 1999 
  • the guaranteed element of Pension Credit 
  • Child Tax Credit (provided you’re not also entitled to Working Tax Credit and have an annual gross income of no more than £16,190) 
  • Working Tax Credit run-on – paid for 4 weeks after you stop qualifying for Working Tax Credit 
  • Universal Credit – if you apply on or after 1 April 2018 your household income must be less than £7,400 a year (after tax and not including any benefits you get) 

- Click Here to Check if your child can get Free School Meals -

 

In most cases:

  • a response will be provided immediately 
  • you will not need to provide proof to the school 
  • you will not need to reapply to confirm continued eligibility 

To complete an application you will need handy: 

  • Your own name and date of birth 
  • Contact details 
  • National Insurance Number or National Asylum Seekers Number 
  • Child’s name and date of birth 

If you have any questions about applying for Free School Meals, please call 0121 366 6611 and ask for the Finance Team.