We know that starting a new school can be a daunting experience for little ones. We have complied some frequently asked questions below to reassure you that your child's dining experiences at school will be positive ones!
My child is new to the school and is in reception or KS1, how do I pay for school meals?
In 2014, the Government introduced free school meals for all children in the UK in reception and years 1 and 2. This means that any child in these year groups are entitled to a delicious hot meal free of charge. Please contact your child's school or school catering manager for more details.
I want my child to start having school meals, where can I find the menu?
Our menu's are displayed on the board in the schools reception and on the schools website, we will also send menu flyers home in children's book bags. Additionally, look for menus at lewishamschoolmeals.co.uk.
I want my child to be able to have school meals but they have an allergy/require a special diet. Do you cater for special diets?
Yes. Our dedicated team of nutritionists work with our chef teams to create menus for those children that suffer with allergies or require a special diet. A special diet is a requirement different to the choices offered within the menu cycle, which are medically required or due to religious beliefs. For medically required diets all requests are to be supported by a GP/Dietician letter confirming the allergy, this enables our nutrition team to develop a suitable menu for your child.
What is included in a school meal?
Each school meal consists of a protein item (either meat, fish or vegetarian options), 2 vegetables (e.g. broccoli/sweetcorn/carrots), a starchy carbohydrate (e.g. pasta/rice/potato), and a pudding.
Will my child be able to switch between having a homemade packed lunch and a school meal?
Yes. As school meals are not mandatory, you are able to switch between packed lunches and school meals. Remember though that school meals are free to those children in reception and years 1 & 2, and provide a nutritionally balanced, delicious meal. Please note some schools have local policies regarding meal ordering so please check with your school before placing orders.
My child is nervous about eating in the dining hall. I want to be able to reassure them by talking them through the dining hall experience. How does the dining hall work and who will my child be sitting with?
The dining hall may be a daunting place for a new starter but there is nothing to be worried about! Children eat with their own class mates and are led to the dining hall by year group by a supervisor who will make sure they get their meals and take it to their tables. Supervisory staff are also on hand to ensure the lunchtime is a safe and enjoyable experience.
My child is very particular about they eat. Will my child be able to get a school meal they like? And what would happen if they do not like the meal they chose?
Menus are available to parents to talk about daily food choices. Although all our schools are different we offer additional choices in most schools such as a jacket potato option, fresh fruit and yoghurt as a pudding alternative. Staff soon understand the likes and dislikes of pupils and help them make choices on a daily basis.
