Teacher's notes The Education (Nutritional Standards for School Lunches) (England) Regulations introduced in April 2001 state that primary school lunches should provide at least one item from the food groups ‘bread, other cereals and potatoes’, ‘meat fish and alternatives’, and ‘milk and dairy’ every day. Fresh fruit, fruit canned in juice or fruit salad must be provide every day and a fruit based dessert must be provided at least twice a week. A type of vegetable must be provided every day. Chips and other starches cooked in oil can be provided no more than three times a week. See the Grab 5! Action Pack, information bank 4 for the regulations.

PSHE: 1a, 2a and 4a

Ask the children to describe the food available at their school lunches. Is a balanced diet offered? Do the school lunches comply with the regulations? (Are fruit and vegetables provided every day? Are chips offered no more than three times a week?)

Ask them to consider the effects of any other school rules concerning food;

• Are there any rules about the content of packed lunches?
  
• What sort of drinks are allowed or available in school?
  
• Is water available throughout the day at school?
  
• Are sweets allowed in school?
  
• Is fruit available at school?

Should any of these rules be changed?

Ask the children to consider any other ways in which the school might influence attitudes about food and diet;

• Are children encouraged to collect tokens from crisp packets or other fatty or sugary foods?
  
• What foods are awarded as treats or prizes?
  
• Are children taught about food and healthy eating?
  
• Does anyone monitor what foods children choose and what foods they waste during
  lunch time?
  
• Does anyone offer individual advice about healthy options?
  
• Does the school have a tuck shop selling foods high in sugar and/or fat.

Action Pack, Ideas Bank