School Meals

At ContinU Plus Academy, we are proud to provide a fully inclusive approach to school meals, ensuring that all students and staff have access to high-quality, nutritious food throughout the day at no cost. We recognise that for many young people, basic needs such as food and security must be met before they can fully engage in learning. Our provision is rooted in this understanding, reflecting the principles of Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs, where wellbeing and belonging are fundamental to success.

Students are welcomed each morning with breakfast as they arrive – toast, yoghurts, fruit, and drinks - alongside daily newspapers and opportunities to talk with staff and settle into the day. At first break, students enjoy favourites such as cheese and beans on toast, followed by a second break with hot and cold drinks, fruit and biscuits. Lunch is a central part of the day, with a wide range of freshly prepared meals including hot dishes, salads, sandwiches, vegetarian options and desserts. Our menu is extensive and we update it regularly. For students attending off-site provision, we provide packed lunches and additional food and drinks to ensure they are fully supported throughout the day. Our kitchen team is always available to respond to individual needs, ensuring no student goes without.

We place great importance on the social experience of eating. Staff eat alongside students, modelling positive habits and building strong relationships. For students who may feel anxious about eating in front of others, we provide quieter spaces where they can feel safe and comfortable. This inclusive approach helps to remove barriers, reduce stigma, and create a culture where all students feel valued and supported.

For our students, food is not just about eating, but also about learning, independence and pride. Through our Food curriculum, we provide all ingredients and resources needed for students to prepare and cook meals from fresh ingredients, developing essential life skills alongside confidence and creativity. Students regularly take home the food they have prepared, something they are often extremely proud of, helping to extend the impact beyond the school day.

Students also play an active role in our wider school community by supporting the preparation of catering for key events, including governor meetings and visits from external partners. This provides valuable real-world experience and reinforces a sense of responsibility, contribution and achievement.

Our commitment extends beyond the school day. We actively support families where needed, offering practical help such as food hampers and vouchers for local shops. Every year, staff make voluntary contributions so that we can put together full Christmas Hamper’s for our 20 most vulnerable families, including everything from the Turkey to the gravy and the Christmas pudding and Yule Log! We wrap these up and staff deliver them in time for Christmas.

We also create memorable experiences for our students, including celebration meals in school and visits to local restaurants. Our annual Christmas dinner is a highlight, with staff serving in a fully hosted setting, helping to build confidence, develop social skills and create a strong sense of community.

Through this comprehensive approach, we ensure that students are not only nourished physically, but also supported emotionally and socially—enabling them to fully engage in school life and achieve their potential.