Jersey’s Government Primary Schools Implement Hot Meal Program Ahead of Schedule

Government-funded primary schools across Jersey have now introduced hot meal services, achieving this milestone ahead of the December 2024 target. The initiative commenced in 2019 with a pilot program in five schools, in collaboration with the local charity Caring Cooks. Deputy Rob Ward, the Minister for Education, lauded the program, emphasizing its positive contributions to children’s health, its role in reducing inequalities, and its assistance in alleviating cost-of-living pressures. The daily cost for these meals is £2.50, with certain children qualifying for free provisions. The program currently engages two suppliers: Caring Cooks, based in Jersey, and Apetito, which operates from the UK. Ward stated: “The work that has gone into rolling out this programme over the last five years is remarkable.” He added: “We should be proud of the fact that all our children can now have a hot, nutritious meal each day they are in school.” He concluded: “This offering was a priority for good reason: it has huge benefits for our children, young people and their families.” Tilly, a pupil at First Tower Primary School, shared: “It has helped me… I don’t have to wake up early in the morning and make my own lunches.” She further noted: “It also feels good because I get to sit with my friends and we chat.” On Wednesday, students enjoyed a Christmas-themed roast lunch. School staff also believe the hot meals have benefited the pupils. Teacher Michael Pallot commented that “it’s been great” and specifically observed that “after lunch in particular – we’ve seen much better concentration from pupils”. He additionally remarked: “It’s also really good at lunchtimes because we can see all the pupils talking to each other so it’s really social, which is very nice to see.”