The work of two Isle of Wight schools to improve their meals by introducing more local produce may be highlighted as a beacon to others across the South East.

The Soil Association has paid a visit to both Gurnard and Cowes Primary schools to see how they are working towards making their meals healthier while also encouraging pupils and the community to engage in cooking activities.

The two schools recently took part in a trial scheme that saw them use more locally grown produce in their meals. Using guidance from the Soil Association’s Food for Life Campaign, the ‘Local Produce Pilot Project’ ran for the duration of the Autumn term.

Through the initiative, pupils learnt more about seasonal foods with menus designed around the time of year. The scheme also helps support local businesses as well as the environment by reducing the amount of ‘food miles’ travelled, resulting in fewer emissions.

A team from the Soil Association visited the schools on 25 February where they sampled the food, met teachers and students including the school cooks and those involved in the Food For Life Project. The schools should find out if they will become Flagship Schools by the end of March. Only nine schools across the South-East region will be given the honour of being a Flagship.

The Food for Life Partnership is a network of schools and communities across England committed to transforming food culture. The Partnership is led by the Soil Association together with the Focus on Food Campaign, Garden Organic and the Health Education Trust. Its aim is to revolutionise school meals, reconnect young people with where their food comes from and inspire families to cook and grow food.

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