NGA launches Free E-Learning Module on School Food Standards – In Partnership with DfE

The National Governance Association (NGA) has launched a new Learning Link e-learning module: A whole-school approach to food, developed in partnership with the Department for Education (DfE).

The module, which is free to all governing board members, provides essential guidance on the legal requirements and best practices for maintaining and enhancing school food standards.

Focusing on the pivotal role governing boards play in promoting student health and well-being, it offers a structured journey through understanding the School Food Standards, including why they matter, how they impact students, and what boards can do to exceed the standards and support pupil welfare.

The content covers key areas such as the board’s oversight responsibilities, creating policies, and effectively monitoring school food provision. Through this training, board members will understand the legal and practical elements of food standards, ensuring that schools meet and set an example in nutrition and healthy practices.

Why This Module Matters:

School Food Standards are critical to the governing board’s legal duty to support pupil health and well-being. This course equips board members with the knowledge to develop effective food policies and oversee their implementation, minimising barriers to learning and meeting statutory requirements.

To Access the Module

All governors and trustees can access the module free via the Learning Link Trial Site. Existing subscribers can access it via the Learning Link platform.

Stephen Morgan MP, Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Early Education, DFE:
“From personal experience, I know just how vital a role school governors play in ensuring our schools are built on a foundation of high and rising standards, and that every child can achieve and thrive.
School food is one area where governors can make a real difference. Research shows that around half of schools find it challenging to meet the standards for lunches, so we want to increase their understanding and make sure all children have access to nutritious food throughout the school day.
Running alongside our plan to provide free breakfast clubs in every primary school, this training is the latest step in this government’s mission to make sure every child gets the best start in life.”

Jamie Oliver, Chef, restauranter and food standards campaigner
“The school food system is the biggest restaurant chain in the UK – which also has the vital role of fuelling the next generation on a daily basis. Imagine what could be achieved if all schools had the support and resources they need to provide every child with delicious, nutritious food. We’ve seen time and again what happens when kids are properly nourished – they focus better in class, achieve better grades, and go on to lead happier lives. It’s as simple as that. And, dear governors and trustees, it’s in your power to make a real difference. You know what you need to do."

Emma Balchin, Chief Executive, NGA:
"We are thrilled to launch our new eLearning in partnership with the DfE, focussed on the importance of the School Food Standards. This collaboration highlights the shared commitment between NGA and DfE to support governing boards in their pivotal role, so they can be confident in asking questions about the standards, and supporting improvements where they are needed, ensuring every child has access to nutritious, high-quality food throughout the school day.
The governance role in school food is so important in the current context of 2.4 million children living in food insecure homes (2022-23)."