Cambridgeshire nursery first to win children's food award

The Old School House near Newmarket won the award, given to nurseries, childminders, schools and childcare providers who can show how they are championing healthy eating and nutrition for children.

To achieve the award, settings have to meet criteria on menus, training, food policies, the dining experience, encouraging good eating habits and giving children opportunities to learn to cook.

Linda Baston-Pitt from the Old School House said, ‘Achieving this national recognition has been so valuable for us. It’s reassurance for parents that their child is eating well when they’re with us and that we’re committed to helping their child get off to a great start with food supporting their growth and development.’

Linda Cregan, the Children’s Food Trust chief executive, said, ‘Anyone can say that they provide good food for children, but do they really deliver? Parents and carers often ask what they should be looking for in meals that their school or nursery provides, and on their approach to helping children learn about food.

'Our award offers an easy way to spot those which really are doing a fantastic job on food, and the reassurance that they have the thumbs-up from experts.
The Old School house sets a great example - congratulations to the whole team.’

To apply, providers must complete an initial self-assessment free of charge, followed by a face-to-face assessment. Assessors will observe a mealtime and talk to catering staff and children in the setting.

Award holders can use the award logo and will be named on the Children’s Food trust website, along with having access to information, news and resources throughout the year. The award lasts for 12 months.

The assessment framework is a combination of the national food standards and the Voluntary Food and Drink guidelines for Early Years, alongside the meeting of certain criteria. 

• For more information visit: http://www.childrensfoodtrust.org.uk/award/award-faqs#for