Headteachers say families will struggle after another rise in school dinner prices
Summary
Northern Ireland’s Education Authority will raise school meal prices for the second time in 2026, citing financial pressure. School leaders say the increases could strain household budgets, while the authority says parents still pay less than the estimated cost of producing each meal.Key Facts
- Meals for pre-school, primary and special school pupils will rise by 30p.
- Prices for post-primary school meals will rise by 15%.
- The latest increase follows a rise of just under 20% introduced in January 2026.
- A paid meal at a primary or special school will have risen from £2.60 to £3.40 since the start of 2026.
- Pupils who qualify for free school meals will not be affected.
- The Education Authority estimates that producing a school meal costs more than £5.20.
- The authority will also replace some baked desserts with cheaper alternatives.
- Headteachers interviewed by BBC News NI said the increases could make it harder for families to afford meals.
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