School Meals

Learners are encouraged to have a school dinner, although parents may choose to provide a packed lunch if they prefer.

We recognise that, for some learners, eating and drinking may not always be positive or pleasurable experiences. At Springside, we work closely with families to support learners’ individual needs around food. Where appropriate, we use a fussy eaters programme, delivered in partnership with parents, to encourage learners to explore and taste a wider range of foods when the time is right for them.

Learners who receive nutrition via a gastrostomy are supported to engage in social, sensory and musical activitiesduring the lunchtime period, ensuring they are included in the social aspects of the school day.

Our school meals are prepared and cooked on site and offer a healthy and balanced choice, including a halal option. Other dietary requirements can be accommodated where possible. Some dietary needs may require additional information from a doctor or health professional to ensure we meet them safely. Parents who wish to discuss their child’s meals or dietary needs are encouraged to contact the school.

Dinner money should be sent to school each Monday, in an envelope clearly marked with your child’s name and the amount enclosed.

Some families may be entitled to Free School Meals. Please contact the school office for further information or support with applications.

We aim to support learners in developing healthy eating habits. School meals are based on national healthy eating guidelines, and learners are taught about nutrition and healthy food choices as part of health education and the Knowledge and Understanding curriculum. For safety and wellbeing reasons, sweets and chewing gum are not permitted in school.

All learners have access to drinking water throughout the day. Learners also receive a daily carton of milk and a healthy snack, provided at no charge.

Learners who bring packed lunches should not bring glass bottles, as these pose a safety risk. Parents are encouraged to ensure that packed lunches are based on healthy food choices.

Our meals are prepared daily by our on-site catering team. We strive to provide high-quality meals and recognise the importance of food and nutrition as part of children’s rights and wellbeing, in line with the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child:

“You have the right to a good enough standard of living. This means you should have food, clothes and a place to live…”
UNICEF – Article 27

Please see an example menu below.