In the summer term district managers throughout the county visit as many schools as possible to meet up with the parents or carers of children starting reception in the autumn term. The aim is to inform parents of the school lunch offer and to encourage as many parents as possible to use the service. In some cases we offer tasting sessions where parents and children can try several of the dishes on the current menu to make them aware of the quality of our dishes. In other schools we display sample plates of several lunches so the parents can see what is available and the size of the portions.

What we tend to find when speaking to parents: -

Parents are pleased with the size of portion. 

Parents are amazed at how much is cooked from fresh raw ingredients.

Parents think the choice of dishes is excellent.

Parents feel that children would enjoy the food offered.

Parents like the fact their children can have a piece of homemade bread and some crudities if they wish.

Regular comments from parents: -

Q- What happens if my child doesn't eat their lunch on a regular basis?

A- The school would always report back to the parent, as they wouldn't want a hungry and upset child.

Q- My child is a fussy eater and they might not like anything

A- Peers influence children and if they see friends eating something they often try foods they wouldn't normally eat at home.

Q- I will send my child into school with a packed lunch until they have settled into their new routine and then start them on school lunches.

A- If your child starts school and is having a new experience let them incorporate all changes at once, as they will be reluctant to change their new routine at a later date.

Q- How nutritious are school meals?

A- We provide a healthy menu, which is compliant with the new stringent government nutritional standards. If a child has a school lunch then you know they will be having a third of their daily nutrient intake.

It is a widely accepted fact that eating a nutritious meal at lunchtime promotes a child's ability to perform well at school. So why not encourage your children to try a school lunch and see the benefits for your child and yourself.