Natalie Maughan, headteacher at Bowburn Primary School, said the program also helped families struggling with paperwork or “stigma” by providing them with free meals.

“I think this is the way forward for our families,” Ms Maughan said, adding: “There might be some stigma attached to (free school meals).

“Parents may not want to fill out the form or may not feel eligible.”

Signing up for a free meal saves families on average £400 per child per year, Durham County Council has said.

It also provides additional funds to schools through the government bonus granted to pupils.