National School Meals Week - eating a healthy school meal
We’re working with schools and our school meals provider Caterlink to make sure children eat and enjoy a healthy school lunch. As National School Meals Week got underway this week (12 to 16 November), we asked two of our secondary schools what they think the benefits are for students.
Regent High School
Gary Moore, headteacher of Regent High School, said: “We are committed to enabling our students to understand the importance of healthy eating and establishing good eating habits for life. Our menus are nutritionally-balanced and there is a wide choice, catering for different tastes and needs.
“We have a high number of students who are eligible for free school meals, and our staff work hard to ensure that all eligible families apply and take advantage of this important offer. The Pupil Premium funding that we receive from registered children also helps to provide additional support for students and healthy breakfasts before their exams.”
Acland Burghley School
Dylan Owen, director of learning at Acland Burghley School, said: “Our dining hall is at the centre of the school community and we aim for meal times to be a community event enjoyed by all. Eating properly is an essential part of ensuring you succeed during your school day.
“Students who are entitled to a free school meal are encouraged to take up their meal every day. We have invested in making the dining hall as pleasant as possible. The food is healthy and balanced, with fruit salad on offer every day, as well as a salad bar. Students also get to enjoy traditional favourites, such as sponge and custard and fish on Fridays. We included chicken wraps after reading responses to our student canteen survey.”
Free school meals
Parents who claim benefits or who are on a low income can apply for free school meals for children in year three right up to year 11 in secondary school. To find out if you’re eligible and to apply, visit camden.gov.uk/fsm or call 020 7974 5771.
Photos: 1. Regent High School Headteacher, Gary Moore, in the school's dining hall with students Poema (left) and Jasmine. 2. The salad bar in Acland Burghley School's recently revamped dining hall.