How are we faring in Richmond
& Kingston?

In April 2000 the management of school meals was transferred from Local Authorities to secondary schools. The governing body of each school is now responsible for its school meals, but primary schools can choose either to be part of a borough provision, or to opt out and self manage.

In July 2007 School Food Matters talked to 32 state schools about their decisions in relation to school meals. This included primary, secondary and special schools and the results revealed 6 different types of provision ranging from multi-national catering companies to the in-house school cook. The group also included 6 primary schools offering no hot meal provision, with all children, including those entitled to free school meals, eating a packed lunch.

In summary, we found:

• In total, 27 primary schools were surveyed, accounting for approximately 7650 children. 22% of those children take school lunches and of those children, 36% are entitled to free school meals.
• Of the 32 schools, all but one has applied for Healthy Schools Status. 30 had been awarded Healthy Schools Status, and one is working towards the mark.

Research Findings at 17/07/07 (the figures are approximate and subject to seasonal variations)