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This recognition celebrates the school’s commitment to embedding a positive food culture at the heart of school life and the ‘transformational’ work they have put into this.

Food for Life was commissioned by Lancashire County Council in 2023 to help primary schools embed a whole-school approach to food—boosting knowledge, accessibility, and enjoyment of healthy, sustainable meals while tackling childhood obesity and health inequalities.

Two and a half years into the programme, 124 schools are enrolled and 184 teaching staff trained across Lancashire, building confidence to create growing spaces, prioritise minimally processed foods, and integrate food education into the curriculum.

Daniel Matchett, cabinet member for Health and Wellbeing, Lancashire County Council, said: “Park Primary’s achievement as Lancashire’s first Food for Life gold school is truly inspiring.

“The way children are learning to grow, cook and share food, while developing a love for the outdoors, shows the real value of embedding healthy, sustainable habits in school life. This award reflects the dedication of pupils, staff and families, and I am proud to see such commitment to both wellbeing and community in Colne.”

Park Primary School highlights include:

• Home-Grown Produce: Every child participates in gardening projects twice per half term, learning about soil, nutrition, and seasonal planting.
• Cooking and Nutrition: Regular cooking sessions feature allotment produce, from campfire pumpkin soup to fruit kebabs and herb-infused bread.
• Community Engagement: Families join vibrant cooking clubs, and partnerships with local groups like Colne in Bloom and Open Door strengthen community ties.
• Sustainability Leadership: Initiatives include composting improvements, food waste reduction, and sharing surplus food with local food banks.

A parent added: “It’s brilliant to watch my son enjoying the outdoors and getting involved with the cooking together with his friends. It’s a wonderful space and facility for our school.”