Despite higher rates of free school meal eligibility than ever before, 3 million pupils in poverty are still missing out. How can school leaders plug the funding gap?
For pupils facing deprivation and food insecurity at home, school meals can be a crucial source of nourishment. Free school meal programs contribute to a more equitable learning environment by ensuring that all students have access to nutritious meals. Yet, despite higher rates of eligibility than ever before, many pupils in poverty are still missing out.
School meals have a multifaceted impact on pupil wellbeing, influencing physical health, cognitive function, emotional stability, social interactions, and educational attainment. Ensuring the meals served in schools prioritise nutritional quality and inclusivity can contribute to the overall well-being and success of pupils.
But with high food and energy prices, and low budgets, what can school leaders do to fund meals for children who fall outside of eligibility criteria? How can they protect their attainment and broader wellbeing?
Download our guide to learn:
- How school meals can improve attendance and attainment
- How you can help pupils make healthy, and safe, food choices
- How your catering team can save serious money and resources
- How you can use this to fund pupils in need.