The Department for Education has published the adult skills fund (ASF) funding calculation rule-base for the 2025 to 2026 funding year, providing source code that shows how learner data is processed and earnings are calculated from individualised learner records. The material is intended for providers, management information teams and software suppliers and should be read alongside wider ASF funding guidance and funding rates and formula documentation. Separately, children from households receiving Universal Credit (a U.K. benefit for people on low incomes or out of work) can now receive free school meals, regardless of household earnings. Families applying for the first time must submit an application, while temporary protections for some pupils have ended and eligibility is now based on current family circumstances. Schools and local authorities are encouraged to continue providing meals to existing recipients while eligibility rechecks are completed, and to promote the expanded criteria and assist families with applications. The DfE is also seeking feedback from people responsible for procuring goods and services for schools, academies or trusts through surveys, feature testing and discussions with researchers. A competent person workshop for Risk Protection Arrangement members is scheduled for Wednesday 16 September 2026, from 10am to midday, with registration through Teams.