Millions of meals have been served at primary schools across West Sussex in the last three months.
And thousands of pupils have been enjoying them at no cost to their parents, thanks to the introduction of Universal Infant Free School Meals (UIFSM) at the start of the 2014/15 school year.
Since September, more than 2.5 million meals have been served as the number of children taking advantage of school meals has risen dramatically.
The average take up of school meals by infant-aged children in West Sussex is around 90%. Previously it had been around 30%, which means more children are being able to take advantage of healthy and nutritious meals.
The meals have also passed the pupils’ taste test, meeting with nods of approval.
Evie, who is in reception class, said: “I like the school dinners. I like all of it.
“My best pudding is the yoghurt.”
Throughout December and until the end of term, Christmas lunches are being served at primary schools on selected days.
Pupils at the Glebe Primary School, in Southwick, enjoyed their meals on Friday 12 December and staff joined in the celebrations as the whole school dressed up as elves.
Millie, a year one pupil, said: “It was really nice – I really liked the sausages.
“The cake was scrummy.”
Jeremy Hunt, West Sussex County Council’s Cabinet Member for Education and Skills, added: “We’re delighted so many children have been able to benefit from these free meals.
“As lovely as it is to see at Christmas-time, it’s wonderful to see them enjoying their lunches all year round.
“Studies show that having a healthy and nutritious meal can help to improve concentration in the classroom, which means our children will be able to reap the rewards long into the new year, and for many years to come.”
