Information

Food Policy

Food & Nutrition at SACGS

At St Annes College Grammar School, we recognise that food is not just about nutrition—it is about wellbeing, confidence, and feeling ready to learn.

We understand that every child is different. For some students, eating is straightforward. For others, it can feel more challenging due to preferences, routines, or anxiety around food.

Our approach reflects this, providing a calm, flexible, and supportive environment where every student is able to eat in a way that works for them.

A Thoughtful, Individual Approach

We recognise that some students:

  • prefer familiar or simple foods
  • are sensitive to textures, smells, or presentation
  • feel unsure about trying new foods
  • may need time and reassurance around eating

For this reason, we do not take a “one-size-fits-all” approach.

Instead, we provide structure and consistency, alongside flexibility and understanding.

Ensuring Every Student Can Eat

Our key principle is simple:

It is better for a child to eat something simple than nothing at all.

Each lunchtime includes:

  • a main meal
  • a deconstructed option (ingredients served separately)
  • a simple, familiar option (such as pasta, bread, rice, or potatoes)

This ensures that every student can access food comfortably, regardless of preference or confidence.

Free Breakfast for All Students

We provide a free daily breakfast for all students.

We know that mornings can be busy, and some students:

  • are in a rush to leave the house
  • travel longer distances to school
  • may not feel ready to eat early in the day

Breakfast is available in a relaxed setting and includes:

  • toast
  • brioche
  • croissants
  • yoghurt
  • fruit

These options are:

  • simple and familiar
  • easy to eat
  • suitable for a wide range of preferences

This helps ensure that every student starts the day having eaten and ready to learn.

Building Confidence Over Time

While our priority is always that students feel comfortable eating, we also gently support them to broaden their choices over time.

This is done through:

  • gradual exposure to new foods
  • small, manageable steps from familiar to new
  • encouragement without pressure

For example:

  • having a new food on the plate
  • trying a small taste
  • building confidence at their own pace

We recognise that progress looks different for every student.

Nutrition and Healthy Choices

We have regard to guidance from the Department for Education and aim to promote balanced, healthy eating.

Our approach includes:

  • meals prepared using healthier methods (e.g. oven-baked rather than fried)
  • fruit, vegetables, and dairy options available daily
  • a focus on simple, nutritious ingredients

These principles are applied in a way that remains accessible and realistic for all students.

A Calm and Supportive Environment

Lunchtime at SACGS is:

  • calm and well-structured
  • supported by familiar staff
  • free from pressure or judgement

We understand that feeling safe and relaxed is key to successful eating.

Working with Families

We work closely with parents and carers to:

  • understand individual preferences and routines
  • support any specific dietary needs
  • ensure consistency between home and school where helpful

We welcome open communication and collaboration.

Meeting Standards

Our provision aligns with expectations set out by the Independent Schools Inspectorate and reflects guidance from the Department for Education, while remaining appropriately flexible to meet individual needs.

Reassurance for Parents

We know that for some families, food can be a source of worry.

Please be reassured:

  • your child will always have access to something they can eat
  • they will never be pressured or forced
  • they will be supported with patience and understanding

Over time, with the right support:

confidence grows, and food becomes less of a barrier.

Our Commitment

At SACGS, we are committed to ensuring that:

  • every student is able to eat
  • every student feels comfortable and supported
  • every student is given the opportunity to grow in confidence

Because at the heart of everything we do is this belief:

Nourishment comes first. Confidence follows.