Well, we did it! Our first Budding School Lunch here at Annesley!
Annesley is a dynamic, progressive learning environment, where we value the opportunity to question and challenge what school should be. Schools often follow paths of ‘what has always been done’ as accepted norms that are working okay, but not necessarily reaching the best outcomes for the most precious commodity we have – the young hearts, minds and bodies of the young people we are privileged to learn alongside each and every day. It is our responsibility here at Annesley to continually question and strive for what’s best for these young people and generations to come in Australia.
What’s best for kids?
- Short-term and long-term health outcomes from eating a variety of colourful, nutrient-rich food in the middle of the day
- Seasonal food to fuel bodies for optimal learning engagement
- Social skills, the benefits of eating with friends and teachers
- Sustainable practices to minimise food waste and litter from processed lunchbox food
A school lunch program in Australia may seem ambitious, but you don’t need to look too far afield to see countries are doing this each and every day for their school-aged children. We are already doing this in child-care centres in Australia.
I was so proud of our Annesley students’ enthusiasm, risk-taking and open-mindedness this week! I am also very grateful to our Annesley community for your support. The joy that Budding Lunch brought to our students drives us forward to explore how this program can grow. Please come and chat further if you are interested in being part of this discussion!
My favourite quote of the day:
‘Jo, I tried a pickle for the first time today!’ – Year 2 student
