11^th June 2014

Dear parents and carers

School Meals from September 2014

In line with the new government policy, we are looking forward to offering all pupils in reception, year 1 and year 2 a free school meal and in collaboration with Caterlink, our catering provider, are working hard to get everything in place for September 2014.

Our previous survey indicated that there will be a high uptake.  In order to help us to plan for the expected increase in children eating school lunches the following will apply:

For free school lunches in Year R, 1 and 2:

1. You will be required to make an initial commitment for at least one seasonal term (Sept-Dec/Jan-April/May-July)
2. The commitment will be to have a free school meal every day (not just Fridays!)
3. If, having opted for free school lunches for your child at first, circumstances change and you no longer wish to continue, you must give us notice in *writing of at least four weeks before you change.
4. If you decide not to take up the offer initially and then choose to do so, we will need four week’s notice in *writing before we are able to offer your child free school lunches.
5. There will be hot meals and cold meals (packed lunch) provided each day.However, the school cannot guarantee your child’s first choice.We will, of course, continue to respect religious dietary practices.

*Forms will be available in the office.  The notice period will take effect from the date when returned to the school office.

For paid school lunches in Year 3, 4, 5 and 6:

1. Your child will be required to have school meals for whole weeks paid in advance (Monday – Friday).
2. From September there will no longer be the option to have a meal for an odd day here and there.

For pupils eligible for Free School Meals in Year 3, 4, 5 and 6:

1. You will still be required to make an application and update information when requested.
2. Your child will be required to have school meals for whole weeks (Monday – Friday).
3. From September there will no longer be the option to have a meal for an odd day here and there.

Being able to plan in advance will enable us to provide children with high-quality meals cost-effectively, reducing waste and making the best use of our resources.  

With thanks for your understanding and co-operation in making this new initiative a success.

Yours sincerely

Jane Troth                               Fiona Widdows

Headteacher                          School Cook