Healthy Eating and Learning

At our school, we believe that healthy eating plays an important role in helping children learn, grow and thrive.

A balanced diet gives children the energy they need to concentrate, take part in lessons and stay focused throughout the day. Foods that are rich in nutrients – such as fruit and vegetables, wholegrains, dairy, and protein – help to support brain development, memory and problem-solving skills. Drinking plenty of water also helps children stay alert and prevents tiredness and headaches.

Eating regular, balanced meals supports:

• Better concentration and focus

• Improved memory and thinking skills

• Stable energy levels throughout the day

• Positive mood and behaviour

• Overall health and wellbeing

Breakfast is especially important, as it helps children start the day ready to learn. A healthy lunch and nutritious snacks help maintain energy levels into the afternoon.

We encourage families to support healthy choices by providing balanced packed lunches and limiting foods high in sugar, salt and saturated fats. By working together, we can ensure that all children are well-fuelled and ready to make the most of every learning opportunity.

Healthy bodies support healthy minds — and healthy minds learn best.

Healthy Sugar Intake - School Council Update

Our School Council is currently working on an exciting project to investigate what a healthy sugar intake looks like for children. As part of this work, they are learning about how sugar affects our bodies, our teeth, and even our concentration in class.

Did you know:

• Children aged 4–6 years should have no more than 19g of free sugars per day (about 5 sugar cubes).

• Children aged 7–10 years should have no more than 24g of free sugars per day (about 6 sugar cubes).

• Many fizzy drinks, sweets and some cereals can contain more than a child’s recommended daily amount of sugar in just one serving.

• Too much sugar can contribute to tooth decay, energy spikes and crashes, and difficulties with focus.

Our School Council is also looking at alternatives to birthday sweets shared in school. After all, not everyone likes or wants sweets, and we want to make sure our celebrations are inclusive and healthy. They are exploring creative ideas that still allow children to feel special on their birthday while supporting our commitment to wellbeing.

We look forward to sharing their ideas and next steps soon.

School Dinners

Rawdon St. Peter's recognises the benefits of a well-balanced hot school meal for children in the middle of the day, and would recommend this to parents as the best option. However, should parents decide to send in a packed lunch from home we strongly advise that parents choose the healthiest option.

You can find out more about our school dinners here.

Please be aware that we have a number of children in school who have a nut allergy and therefore ask parents not to include nut based snacks or food in packed lunches.

We have put together some advice for parents to support them in creating health meals in our downloadable leaflet here. You can also find more information by visiting the Change4Life website, which also includes recipes for family meals.

If you are concerned about your child’s weight, eating or need advice on nutrition, please speak to a member of staff who will be able to point you in the direction of some advice or support.