School Meals
It is well-understood that a healthy diet is essential in supporting children to fulfil their potential. Eating the right food will help children to concentrate in class as well as helping them to feel good mentally and physically. Eating a well-balanced diet supports general health and helps build immunity to regular illnesses. However, in the longer term, a healthy diet along with regular exercise will help prevent life-threatening problems such as cancer, heart disease and diabetes.
Gateshead Catering Service
At Harlow Green, children can choose to eat school meals provided by Gateshead Catering Service. Meals provided in school meet strict nutritional standards which are regulated nationally. There are a variety of meals set out over a three week cycle. To provide flexibility, parent/carers can choose for their children to have a school meal any day of the week and interchange with a packed lunch option. The latest menu can be downloaded by clicking on the image below.
The following document shows pictures of the meals on offer for the full three-week menu (click on the image) which can help support parents/carers to choose meals for their children.
For children who may require consideration due to allergies, intolerances or because of dietary requirements, the catering team will work with families to support.
Packed Lunches
If school meals are not required, children can bring packed lunches. Children eating packed lunch will mix with their friends who are having school meals in the lunch hall.
We expect that parents/carers will support the school’s drive for healthy eating and will provide a healthy balance of food. We expect that children should have only one ‘treat’ per day (e.g. a biscuit or a packet of crisps).
Nuts
There are a number of children who have severe nut allergies at our school. Consequently, we expect that children do not bring nuts or nut-based products (e.g. Nutella) into school. There has been the odd occasion when a parent/carer has not realised and given a product containing nuts. Usually, children themselves are quick to inform a member of staff as they understand the need to keep their friends safe. If a product is brought into school, we will wrap it in a bag and return it to a parent/carer at the end of the day.
Drinks
In school, children should drink water. We encourage everyone to bring a bottle of water every day which they can access during lessons. This should not be flavoured water.
Children should drink water at lunchtime also but when those having school meals will also have a choice of milk.
We understand that those children on packed lunch may be provided with a small juice to have with their meal which should be natural juice or sugar free.
Under no circumstances should children bring in glass bottles or fizzy drinks.
If parents/carers require any support in relation to health matters, particularly healthy eating, they should make contact with their child’s class teacher. The school will endeavour to support and will link in with expert agencies (e.g. the school nurse) that can help.