From the start of the summer term the cost of the school meal in Hampshire will be £2.00 per meal, rising from the current £1.90.  Whilst around a 5% increase, the price still represents excellent value for money with the children receiving a balanced nutritious 2 course meal for that price, which meets the Government's strict legislative nutritional requirements.

Hampshire County Council Catering Services (HC3S) offers a meal service to over 100,000 pupils in the 474 primary and secondary schools it operates in, with over 41,000 pupils a day enjoying a well balanced and nutritious meal over the lunchtime period.  Studies have shown that a healthy diet is linked to an increased ability to learn as well as better behaviour and wellbeing, therefore it is encouraging that so many children get just that from the school meals service in Hampshire.

Additionally HC3S ensures that over 70 additives are not in any of the food it offers, following the practice as recommended by the Hyperactive Children's Support Group, to such an end that HC3S has been awarded the Highest Award for Excellence in School Meals from that group, and is the only school meals service in the country to hold this award.

Much of the food used in the school meals service comes from local sources and where it doesn't, sustainability is still a key consideration, especially with the use of fish for which HC3S holds the Marine Stewardship Council (MSC) accreditation for its use of fish from sustainable stocks.

The children in Hampshire are also encouraged to give feedback on their lunches through the use of a 'Vote for your Favourite Meal' addition to this website