NEARLY 2.1 million pupils in England are now eligible for free school meals, figures showed today.

An additional 75,000 children have became eligible over the past year, according Department for Education data.

Education-sector leaders described the numbers as “the tip of the iceberg” because some children living in poverty are missing out on free school meals.

National Association of Head Teachers general secretary Paul Whiteman said: “The very low income cap of £7,400 for free school meals means some children living in poverty are missing out.

“It is appalling that this cap has not been increased with inflation since it was introduced six years ago.”

Sutton Trust charity founder Sir Peter Lampl added: “It’s appalling that there are record numbers of children eligible for free school meals, indicating rising poverty.

“The true need for free school meals goes far beyond current eligibility criteria.”

Association of School and College Leaders general secretary Pepe Di’Iasio warned that the increase reflects “the very difficult financial situations that many families are facing.”