Council helps schools develop healthier lunch menus
Telford & Wrekin Council’s EatWell team, which is part of the Lets Dine school meals team have been working with school councils at Randlay Primary School and Apley Wood Primary School to develop their lunch menus and encourage children to learn more about the importance of healthy eating habits.
The school councils, which includes children from each class provided feedback about their lunch menus to help the EatWell team to make adjustments to the menus. Their new menus will be arriving within the month.
Councillor Shirley Reynolds, Telford & Wrekin Council’s Cabinet Member for Children, Young People & Education said: “Working with the school councils the children are saying what they like and dislike, helping the EatWell team to develop menus by making small, healthier changes.
“It is important for every child’s development they are provided with a nutritionally balanced meal at school. Providing a free school meal to all reception, year one and year two children allows them to focus more on their work, producing better results in the classroom, therefore providing them with a more improved start to their education”.
The two schools and the EatWell team hope the trial will boost the number of children who choose to take the free school meal option.
The free school meal system entitles every child in reception, year one and year two to a FREE hot or cold meal every day. This is regardless of their household income.
Free school meals also benefit families by saving them money as they do not need to provide their child with a packed lunch, saving time and money. Compared to a typical lunch box from home, savings could be up to £700 per year.
Research shows that children who eat healthily perform better at school too.
If you wish to apply for free school meals for your child, please contact your school office, email cateringadmin@telford.gov.uk or phone 01952 380918.
Further information about free school meals can be found here.
