Healthy Eating for Learning

For growing children, whose brains are still actively developing, getting the right nutrients is important. A healthy, balanced diet can help with concentration and performance inside and outside the classroom.

Essential nutrients, from the right balance of protein, fats and carbohydrates to vitamins, minerals and water are all important for cognitive development.

Launched in 2016 and backed by Public Health England, the Eatwell Guide is the UK government's model for healthy eating. It visually represents the types and quantities of food and drink we should consume to get all the nutrients our bodies need.

© Crown copyright 2016, licensed under the Open Government Licence v3.0

The Five Food Groups

• Fruit & Vegetables: Aim for at least 5 portions each day from fresh, frozen, tinned or dried sources. They are rich in vitamins, minerals and fibre to support immunity, digestion and healthy brain function.

• Starchy Carbohydrates: Foods such as bread, rice, pasta and potatoes provide the body with energy. Choosing wholegrain varieties where possible helps to provide slow-release energy supporting concentration throughout the day.

• Protein: Beans, pulses, fish, eggs and lean meat are all great sources of protein which is essential for growth, repair and development. Include 2 portions of fish per week, one oily.

• Dairy & Alternatives: Milk, yoghurt, cheese and fortified dairy alternatives provide important sources of calcium and vitamin D, which support bone development. Choose lower-fat options where possible.

• Oils & Spreads: Unsaturated oils and spreads provide essential fatty acids and should be included in small amounts.

Foods high in fat, sugar and salt sit outside the main guide to show that they should be eaten less often and in smaller quantities. The Eatwell Guide aligns with the requirements for School Food Standards ensuring pupils have access to nutritious meals that support health and learning.

How Meeting the School Food Standards Supports Learning

The School Food Standards and the Eatwell Guide work hand in hand. Where the Eatwell Guide sets out the ideal balance of nutrients for a healthy diet, the School Food Standards translate that into what must, and must not, be served across the school day.

Fruit & Veg Every Day

The Standards require that at least one portion of fruit and one portion of vegetables are available at every lunch service. This reflects the Eatwell Guide's emphasis on filling over a third of the plate with Fruits and Vegetables. These foods provide micronutrients (vitamins and minerals, such as folate and iron) and fibre that support energy levels, immune health and cognitive function.

Wholegrain & Starchy Foods

Bread, pasta, rice and other starchy foods must be available daily. By choosing wholegrain options wherever possible, this helps provide a steady release of energy, supporting concentration and reducing the afternoon energy slump that can affect learning.

Oily Fish

The Standards require oily fish to be offered at least once every three weeks. Oily fish such as salmon, mackerel and sardines are among the richest dietary sources of omega-3 fatty acids, which can help improve memory and focus in children, making this one of the most brain friendly requirements on the list.

Limiting Sugar, Salt & Processed Foods

The Standards place strict limits on confectionery, crisps, and sugary drinks all of which sit outside the Eatwell Guide's recommended groups. Reducing these from the school day helps prevent the blood sugar spikes and crashes that disrupt attention and removes the excessive salt and saturated fat linked to poor long-term health outcomes.

Free Fresh Water, Always

Fresh drinking water must be available to all pupils throughout the school day. Even mild dehydration can affect concentration, memory and alertness, so this is an effective way to support learning.

At HCL, the menus we create are fully compliant with the School Food Standards ensuring pupils are provided with food that genuinely supports them and helps feeding growing minds. That means colourful, varied fruit and vegetables. Wholegrains wherever possible. High quality proteins including oily fish. Dairy products that provide calcium and a limit on added sugar, salt and saturated fat.

When pupils eat well, they don't just feel better, they learn better. Take a look at one of our School Food Standards compliant menus below: