At the Nottingham Academy we provide a high quality catering service to pupils and staff, offering a balanced and healthy choice of food.

For many pupils, lunch is the principal meal of their day.  Meal times should be relaxed and fun whilst also providing all the ingredients necessary to assist with pupils' concentration and learning.

At the Academy, we prefer to manage the catering provision ourselves; this gives us more control and choice over the food we offer.  We operate a rolling three-week menu, to ensure a wide variety, the weekly menus are available on request.

Break Time

At break time our pupils are offered a range of healthy toasted snacks and bacon sandwiches prepared by the Academy Catering team.  A selection of fresh fruit is also available every day.  Drinks on offer include still water, low-fat flavoured milk and no added sugar fruit juices.

Use of food as a reward

The Academy does not encourage the regular eating of sweets or other foods high in sugar or fat, especially as a reward for good behaviour, academic or other achievements.

National nutritional standards for school lunches

Food prepared by the Academy Catering Team meets the national standards for school lunches (www.schoolfoodtrust.org.uk) and our SNAG (School Nutrition Action Group) is involved in suggesting changes in the menu.

Drinking Water

The Academy provides drinking water using fountains around the site, water can also be purchased in bottles from the canteen. 

Food and drink brought into the Academy

The Academy discourages the consumption of snacks that are both high in fat and sugar at break time. We offer a variety of snacks to our pupils, for example yoghurts, fresh fruit, pasta salads, toasted teacakes, English muffins, toast and crumpets.

We encourage parents and carers to provide their children with packed lunches that adhere to national standards. This is achieved by promoting healthy packed lunch options using the principles of the Balance of Good Health.

Special Dietary Requirements

The Academy provides food in accordance with pupils' religious beliefs and cultural practices. We offer a vegetarian option for lunch every day. When necessary the Academy will also offer a vegan option.

Individual care plans are created for pupils with food allergies. These document symptoms and adverse reactions, actions to be taken in an emergency, and emergency contact details.  The Academy caterers are made aware of any food allergies or food intolerance and requests for special diets are submitted through an agreed process.

Food Safety

Appropriate food safety precautions are taken when food is prepared and stored. These vary depending on the food on offer and include:

• ensuring adequate storage and washing facilities are available making sure that refrigerators are used when necessary
• ensuring that food handlers undergo appropriate food hygiene training
• ensuring suitable equipment and protective clothing are available

Any food hazards are identified and controlled. We consult our local Environmental Health Department about legal requirements where necessary.