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During NSMW school caterers across the country aim to teach important life skills to students and give them tools and the knowledge to grow up strong, healthy and have the energy to learn and thrive in the classroom.

LACA's National School Meals Week (NSMW) is an annual event celebrating the importance of healthy, nutritious school meals across the UK. It highlights the vital role school caterers play in supporting children’s health and wellbeing. NSMW promotes balanced eating, food education, and showcases innovation in school catering.

Schools and caterers nationwide participate through themed days, events, and campaigns that engage pupils, parents, and communities. The week raises awareness about the benefits of school meals and encourages more students to enjoy them. LACA uses the week to advocate for better funding, support local food initiatives, and celebrate the school food sector.

As part of the 2025 NSMW promotions, LACA will showcase just some of the many benefits of enjoying a school lunch as it launches the School Lunch Skills for Life Initiative. The five theme days include:

• Monday – Cooking Together: LACA will work to encourage pupils to get involved in cooking, asking caterers to share recipes for pupils (and parents) to download and try at home.
• Tuesday – Nutrition: Educating children as to what a balanced meal looks like, giving them skills to make the right choice at meal times and snack time.
• Wednesday – Community: LACA will inform pupils as to where their school food comes from.
• Thursday – Environmental: School caterers do a lot to reduce their food miles and reduce waste in general.
• Friday – Social: The importance of eating together, learning how to use a knife and fork, being sociable and kind whilst enjoying school food.

For more information and to access NSMW resources, visit here.