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September brings new pupils, and with them, new dietary needs. It’s the perfect time for school caterers to reflect on what’s working and where small changes could make a big difference. Menu planning at the start of term is not just about refreshing dishes; it’s about ensuring menus are inclusive, balanced, and appealing to all pupils.

Children are increasingly open to trying new flavours, especially after a summer of different food experiences. By simply switching up the herbs, spices, or oils in everyday dishes, caterers can add variety without needing to overhaul their entire menu.

A good base sauce, stock, or gravy can completely transform a dish with a quick flavour twist. In busy school kitchens, these small tweaks are often the most effective way to keep menus fresh and exciting.

There’s also a growing appetite for global-inspired dishes – from Asian rice bowls and bao buns to Middle Eastern wraps and African tagines. These dishes allow caterers to introduce new flavours while leaning into plant-forward menus by using versatile, nutritious ingredients like lentils and pulses.

Our new range of Homepride and Sharwood’s cooking sauces are already proving popular. For example, our Homepride Everything Tomato Sauce is exactly what it says on the tin – a base that chefs can use for just about anything.

Whether it’s pasta, pizza or something more creative, it helps caterers work smarter and quicker. It’s packed with goodness too, including fibre and vitamins C and D, which is a big plus for school menus.

“From a desserts point of view, our new range of McDougalls No Added Sugar Vegan Jelly meets the needs of modern and inclusive school menus. Not only is it HFSS and School Food Standards compliant, but it’s also suitable for vegans and is free from all major allergens including gluten.

With almost two thirds (66%) of children calling for more jelly on school menus, our new must-have range offers a simple, cost-effective way to add fun and flavour to school desserts, without compromising on nutrition.

Holly Charnock, chef at Sefton Council part of the award-winning catering team at Woodlands Primary, shares her experience using McDougalls Jelly: “I love the McDougalls No Added Sugar Vegan Jelly range – it's one of our storeroom favourites. The four flavours, strawberry, raspberry, orange and lime have a fantastic fruity flavour that the kids love.

“The bonus for us is it’s so quick to prepare and set, taking away some of the time pressure we face as school chefs. And it’s incredibly versatile too; we often mix it with fruit for a quick and healthy dessert or for a special end-of-term treat we top it with cream and sprinkles.”