Has a school lunch service that meets or exceeds current DCSF standards for school lunches

• The school lunch service meets or exceeds the current DCSF standards for school lunches
• The named member of the SLT, the governing body and Head Caterer agree that the DCSF standards for school lunch are being met and review this regularly (at least termly)
• Healthy options are promoted
• The caterer can say how minority ethnic and medical/allergy needs have been considered/incorporated in menu planning
• There is appropriate guidance (promoting healthier options) given to children and young people who have packed lunches and their parents/carers

The governing body holds the overall responsibility for the school meeting the standards – they do however need the support of the school community with effective implementation. The new interim standards are a requirement from Sept 2006. New standards will apply from Sept 08 in primary schools and Sept 09 in secondary schools (at the very latest). For standards and support see www.schoolfoodtrust.org.uk
You might like to promote healthy options through tasting sessions, menu boards or sampling. You could explore halal food, ethnic themed days etc. Healthier lunchbox flyers, pamphlets and food preparation sessions are useful - see Food in Schools Toolkit.