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LACA unveils plans for National School Meals Week

06 Nov 2024
It is not too late for school caterers to get involved with LACA’s National School Meals Week (11-15th November).

The theme for the 2024 edition of NSMW is mindful meals. Throughout the week LACA will be highlighting how school meals play an important role in children’s mental wellbeing as well as the physical and academic benefits. There are several events happening as well as the ever-popular theme days.

LACA are working in partnership with David Baddiel to launch his new book in schools. David’s latest book ‘Small Fry’ is about a boy who created the world’s best burger.

David will be visiting Central Park Primary School in Newham to support the launch and the publisher Harper Collins is running a competition for children and schools to enter by creating their own ‘award winning’ burger. The winners will be announced on the Friday of NSMW. Download free resources here for NSMW.

School Meal ambassador Mark Sargeant is supporting the LACA Apprenticeship scheme by inviting VIPs and other supporters of the scheme to his restaurant in Folkstone. The event will be used to promote the four recently developed industry and sector specific apprenticeships in partnership with national training providers HIT Training and Cambrian Training.

The five theme days for NSMW include:

  • Launch day, good mood food and burger competition time: A fun day to launch the week with pupils’ favourites and promote your week of celebrations.
  • Superhero Lunch: Encouraging children into the dining room by being a superhero for the day. School lunches give children the power to get through lessons.
  • The Feel Good Great British Lunch: Ever popular Roast Dinner Day showcasing the best local British produce.
  • Move it for a Better Mind: Linking the importance of food to Physical activity.
  • Be Kind Day!: Invite your local MP or VIP. But for 2024 LACA are asking everyone to carry out small acts of kindness, whether it be a thanks to the catering team, support others in the classroom, or lend a listening ear.