Packed Lunches & Snacks

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Healthy Packed Lunches & Breaktime Snacks

At St James the Less, we are committed to supporting the health and wellbeing of every child. A balanced diet plays a vital role in helping children to concentrate, learn, and feel their best throughout the school day.

We ask all parents and carers to support our Healthy Eating Guidelines by providing nutritious packed lunches and snacks for breaktime. Together, we can help every child to develop healthy habits for life.

If you have any questions about healthy lunches or if your child has specific dietary needs, please don't hesitate to speak with your child’s class teacher or contact the school office. We're here to help and support you.

Please note: we are a nut-free school

 

Breaktime Snacks

Children are expected to bring a simple, healthy snack for their morning break. Suitable options include:

  • A piece of fresh fruit (e.g., apple, banana, satsuma)

  • Vegetable sticks (e.g., carrot, cucumber, pepper)

  • Plain rice cakes or breadsticks

  • A small amount of dried fruit

Children in Reception, Year 1 and Year 2 receive a free piece of fruit or veg daily through the government-funded scheme. Older children are encouraged to bring a healthy snack from home.

 

What Should Be in a Healthy Packed Lunch?

A healthy packed lunch should include:

Carbohydrates

Carbohydrates

e.g. wholemeal bread, wraps, pitta, pasta, or rice:

Protein

Protein

e.g. lean meat, fish, eggs, cheese, or beans:

Fruit and Vegetables

Fruit and Vegetables

at least one portion of each.

Dairy or Dairy Alternatives

Dairy or Dairy Alternatives

e.g. yoghurt, cheese portions

Healthier Treat Options

Healthier Treat Options

Drinks

Drinks

Fizzy or energy drinks are not permitted in school under any circumstances.

Only water is allowed in classrooms throughout the day.

Free milk is available for all children under the age of five in school, funded by the UK government.

Low-sugar juice drinks are permitted in packed lunches, but should be consumed at lunchtime only.

 

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Tips for Parents

  • Involve your child in choosing and preparing their lunch—it helps build healthy habits.

  • Keep portions child-sized. A small, balanced meal is better than lots of snacks.

  • Try to vary ingredients across the week to keep lunches interesting.

 

 

Thank you for working with us to promote a healthy, happy school environment!

Links

Links