Packed Lunch

To help children stay healthy, active and ready to learn, we encourage families to follow these healthy lunchbox guidelines:

• We do not have facilities to keep lunches refrigerated, so please avoid foods that may spoil.
• We are unable to heat food brought from home.
• Fresh drinking water is available throughout the day, so there is no need to send drinks into school.
• Include a source of carbohydrates such as bread, wraps, pasta, rice, crackers or potatoes.
• Add a source of protein, for example chicken, turkey, ham, eggs, beans, lentils, tofu or cheese.
• Include fruit and/or vegetables such as apple slices, bananas, pears, cucumber, carrot sticks or tomatoes.
• If you provide grapes, please cut them in half lengthways, as whole grapes can be a choking hazard for young children.
• A dairy product or dairy alternative, such as yoghurt or fromage frais, can also be included.
• Please limit foods high in sugar, salt and fat, such as crisps, chocolate, sweets and biscuits. These foods can affect children’s health and dental wellbeing.
• Please do not send any foods containing nuts, as some children may have severe nut allergies.

We understand that preparing healthy lunches can sometimes be challenging. If you would like any support, ideas or inspiration for healthy lunchboxes, our Physical and Nutrition Coordinator (PANCo), Salma, is available to offer advice and practical suggestions. Please speak to a member of staff if you would like to find out more.

For ideas and practical advice on preparing healthy lunchboxes for young children, please visit the NHS Healthier Families website:

https://www.nhs.uk/healthier-families/recipes/healthier-lunchboxes/

Thank you for helping us to promote healthy eating, support children’s wellbeing and keep all children safe.