Our Commitment to Healthy Nutrition 

At Beechdale Nursery School, we are deeply committed to supporting the health and well-being of every child. There are increasing concerns that are well publicised, about children's nutrition and its impact on development, learning, and overall health. In line with our core values of respect and well-being, we are taking proactive steps to address this critical issue. 

Food and Nutrition Policy 

Our Food and Nutrition Policy outlines Beechdale Nursery School's approach to food and nutrition, ensuring the health and well-being of all children in our care. It aligns with the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) framework, nutritional guidance, and relevant legislation.  

This policy recognises the importance of providing nutritious food and promoting healthy eating habits from an early age. Having a food and nutrition policy in place and communicating this to parents and/or carers will help you understand our regulatory obligation to provide healthy, balanced and nutritious food to children and encourage the provision of healthier food choices for packed lunches.  

It is important to ensure that food provided from home aligns with the healthy options offered by the setting, so that children receive consistent messages about nutrition. 

Packed Lunch Guidance 

Below, you will find a detailed guide for preparing packed lunches for 1 to under-5 year olds. 

This resource includes: 

• Practical meal ideas 

• Nutritional advice 

• Portion size recommendations 

• Recipes for various dietary requirements (vegan, vegetarian, gluten-free, etc.) 

Cooked Lunches at Beechdale

Beechdale Nursery School work with Consett Junior School and Chartwells to offer cooked nursery lunches for children attending 30hr sessions from October 2026. This is part of our ongoing work to support children’s wellbeing, social development and early learning in line with the Early Years Foundation Stage.

What the lunch offer includes

• A freshly prepared, balanced hot meal each day following healthy-eating guidance (main course, vegetable/salad, fruit or yoghurt).
• A vegetarian option every day and alternatives for children with medical diets or cultural requirements.
• Water and milk available; children will be encouraged to pour a small drink themselves where appropriate to build independence.

How this links to the EYFS and our school values

• Communication & language: staff will sit and model conversation at mealtimes, encouraging children to talk about food, routines and feelings.
• Personal, social & emotional development (PSED): shared mealtimes support turn-taking, manners, resilience and self-confidence.
• Physical development & self-care: children practise using cutlery, serving themselves and managing simple hygiene routines.
• Our core values — respect, kindness, good manners and resilience — are actively practised at mealtimes in a calm, social environment.

Why This Matters 

Our aim is to: 

• Promote healthy eating habits 

• Support children's growth and development 

• Provide consistent nutritional messaging 

• Ensure every child receives the best possible start in life 

Next Steps 

1. Please carefully review the documents below. 

2. Consider the guidance when preparing your child's packed lunch. 

We believe that when parents/carers and schools work together, we can better support our children's health and well-being.