School meals price increase

 

Cheshire East Council is to increase the cost of its school meals by 10 pence from September.

The small increase means pupils will continue to enjoy nutritious and tasty lunches that represent great value for money.

Last year the authority’s School Meals Service froze prices at 2009/10 levels of £2 per meal in primary schools and £2.15 in secondary schools – despite national increases in food and fuel costs.

However, following government cuts in funding and continuing cost pressures, it has not been possible to freeze prices for a second year running. Prices will increase to £2.10 per meal in primary schools and £2.25 in secondaries.

The 10p price rise 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: “Like all local authorities, we are facing increasing 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 17,500 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 stringent nutritional standards, which mean parents can be confident that their children are enjoying a tasty and healthy midday meal.”

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

High 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.