Nursery lunchtimes

From the week commencing 1st June 2026 Nursery pupils will have the option of have a school meal or bringing in a packed lunch.

This is a fantastic step forward for our Nursery provision. Introducing school meals at this stage supports children in developing positive eating habits, encourages them to try a wider range of nutritious foods, and helps build independence and confidence during mealtimes. Sharing meals together also provides valuable social opportunities, allowing children to develop communication skills and enjoy a calm, structured dining experience with their peers.

The School lunch price is £2.90 per day (£14.50 per week). All school meals must be ordered and paid for in advance online on Arbor. (Unfortunately Nursery pupils are not entitled to a free school meal.)

Catering is provided by Edwards and Ward

Meal choices must be made in advance on the Arbor parent app for all pupils, alternatively children can bring with them a packed lunch from home.

If you need a reminder of your Arbor account log in details, please contact the school office. 

In the event that your child is absent from school your order will be cancelled by the school office and you will not be charged for the meal. Each meal taken will be debited from your child's Arbor account on the day of provision.

(If your child has packed lunches, please ensure that all products included are nut free. Please note that Pesto contains nuts and should not be included in a packed lunch.) 

Nursery school lunch menu

All Nursery children are fully supervised by trained members of staff at all times. Staff are present to support children throughout the entire process, including transitioning to the dining area, eating their lunch, and returning to their learning environment.

During mealtimes, children are encouraged to develop independence by carrying their trays (where appropriate), using cutlery, and making simple choices about their food. Staff provide guidance and assistance as needed, including helping to cut food, open packaging, and ensure that children are eating safely.

Lunchtime is also an important social part of the day. Staff support children in developing good table manners, taking turns, and engaging positively with their peers in a calm and structured environment.

Children’s safety and wellbeing remain our highest priority. Staff closely monitor all pupils to ensure that dietary needs are met and that any allergies or medical requirements are carefully managed.

If your child brings a packed lunch, we kindly ask that food is prepared in a way that supports independence (for example, easy-to-open containers and pre-cut items where possible).

The following foods should be limited or avoided where possible:

• High sugar foods such as sweets, chocolate and cakes

• Salty snacks such as crisps

• Processed foods high in fat, sugar or salt

• Sugary drinks, including fizzy drinks and squash with added sugar

Water and milk are the most suitable drinks for this age group.

All meals must be prepared with young children in mind. This includes:

• Cutting round foods (e.g. grapes, cherry tomatoes) into smaller pieces

• Avoiding hard, small or sticky foods that present a choking risk

• Ensuring textures are suitable for early years children

If you have any questions or specific concerns regarding your child’s needs at lunchtime, please do not hesitate to contact the nursery manager.

School food standards Resources