School Meals Price Freeze

 

Cheshire East Council has announced a price freeze on school meals.

Despite national increases in food and fuel costs, the authority’s School Meals Service has held prices at 2009/10 levels of £2 per meal in primary schools and £2.15 in secondary schools.

This price is intended as a guideline only so while it is likely to be adopted by the majority of schools, some may choose to implement a different charge.

Councillor Hilda Gaddum, Cabinet member with responsibility for children and families, said: “The economic downturn has impacted hard on many families and we hope that this price freeze will help them to keep everyday costs down.

“Like all local authorities, we are facing rising costs from our suppliers but our School Meals Service continues to work hard to minimise the impact by carefully managing staff and resources.

“School meals are a popular choice in Cheshire East. We serve up more than 17,000 lunches each day, all of which are freshly prepared on the premises using locally sourced ingredients as much as possible.

“They represent excellent value for money and follow strict nutritional standards which mean parents can be confident that their children are enjoying a healthy and tasty midday meal.”

Pupils can select from a two-course menu with a choice of two main course meals and a pudding.

Secondary school pupils also have the option of filling their plates in ‘cash cafeterias’ where they can buy sandwiches and select from a salad bar.

The School Meals Service has produced a leaflet for pupils titled ‘What’s for Lunch?’ outlining menu choices for the new term which also features tips for a healthy lifestyle.