blog.gov.je
By the end of 2024, Jersey achieved a significant milestone in its commitment to child welfare and education: every States of Jersey primary school now offers hot school lunches. This development marks a major step forward in supporting children and families across the Island.
The initiative began in September 2019 with a pilot programme in five schools, delivered in partnership with local charity Caring Cooks. The concept was straightforward yet impactful – provide affordable, nutritious meals to children, helping families manage cost-of-living pressures while encouraging healthier eating habits. The pilot’s success laid the groundwork for a wider rollout.
To support the programme’s expansion, an additional £1.6 million was allocated through the Government Plan 2023–2026. This funding enabled the installation of serveries in each school, along with the necessary equipment and staffing to deliver hot meals daily.
“The work that has gone into rolling out this programme over the last five years is remarkable. We should be proud of the fact that all our children can now have a hot, nutritious meal each day they are in school.”
Minister for Education and Lifelong Learning, Deputy Rob Ward
The pilot stage lasted from 2019 to 2023, due to Covid, and then 12 months to fully roll-out from 2023 to 2024 once the funding was in place. The programme now includes all government-funded primary schools. Meals are provided each day through two suppliers: Caring Cooks, continuing its local involvement, and UK-based company Apetito.
Meals are priced at £2.50, which includes a balanced main course and dessert. For families requiring financial assistance, meals are offered free of charge to eligible children, such as those receiving Income Support. The model is designed to be both inclusive and sustainable.
Beyond nutrition, the programme contributes to reducing inequalities, improving dietary habits, and alleviating financial stress for families. It has been a strategic priority for the Government of Jersey, with oversight from the States Assembly and scrutiny panels throughout its development and implementation.
Community feedback has played a vital role in shaping the programme. Surveys and interviews with parents, teachers, and students have helped refine the offering. By 18 December 2024, all government primary schools were equipped to serve hot meals – just in time for the festive season.
“This offering was a priority for good reason; it has huge benefits for our children, young people and their families.”
Minister for Education
and Lifelong Learning, Deputy Rob Ward
While it is too early to assess long-term outcomes such as behavioural changes, childhood obesity, or dental health, early feedback has been encouraging. Head teachers have reported improved pupil engagement in afternoon lessons, attributed to the provision of a nutritious lunch. Parents have also noted positive changes in their children’s eating habits at home. Monitoring and evaluation will continue as further data becomes available.
Deputy Rob Ward, Minister for Education and Lifelong Learning, reflected on the achievement: “The work that has gone into rolling out this programme over the last five years is remarkable. We should be proud of the fact that all our children can now have a hot, nutritious meal each day they are in school.
“This offering was a priority for good reason; it has huge benefits for our children, young people and their families. It works towards reducing inequalities in our society, improves healthy eating and helps to reduce the cost-of-living pressures for Islanders.”
This programme represents more than just a school lunch – it is a testament to what can be accomplished through collaboration between government, community organisations, and families.