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Pupils & learning

School food: the role of governing boards

How boards can influence, support and monitor school food provision.

Guidance
16/09/2026
Pupils-learning having packed lunch

Schools play a significant role in supporting pupils to develop healthy habits and behaviours that extend into adulthood. School lunches also help with addressing childhood obesity, hunger and food insecurity, which can have a significant impact on wellbeing and academic engagement and currently affects millions of children in this country.

Governing boards have a statutory responsibility to ensure adherence to school food standards and are crucial in establishing a positive school food culture.

Our school food guidance covers:

  • understanding school food provision and standards
  • making provision inclusive
  • free school meals
  • how to influence and monitor your school food offer

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