Pupils at The Bemrose School learn more about healthy eating and exercise

Young people have been learning the importance of tucking into a healthy meal as they find out more about where their food comes from.

The Bemrose School, in Derby, is teaching pupils all about healthy eating and the impact it has on the mind, focus and mental health and that is set to continue into the holidays.

Every year a summer school is held over two weeks in August which is free for pupils in Year 5 and Year 6, going into Year 7. It is supported by the holiday activities and food (HAF) programme.

It teaches the pupils all about healthy eating and living, giving them breakfast and a healthy lunch provided by Mellors Catering Services, as well as plenty of exercise.

James Dachtler, Assistant Headteacher – Primary Phase, said: “It’s vital to have a balanced diet and for children to learn about eating healthy and exercise.

“It teaches them to have a healthy mind and body which helps with their focus and is part of their general well-being. The summer school is fantastic and it’s fully funded so it does not cost parents anything.”

Mellors Catering Services create nutritious, delicious meals for The Bemrose School and has provided a new way of making healthy eating more approachable and enjoyable, so the children are able to learn in an engaging way. The area manager in Nottinghamshire and Derbyshire is Becky Walker.

Mellors donated a 'grow box' for children in the Early Years Foundation Stage to teach them more about their food and previously they have also had chance to taste different fruits, which proved a big hit. The box contained a selection of items which included gardening tools, equipment, seeds, gloves and information packs.

A Mellors spokesperson said: “Mellors are committed to driving education and engagement through mealtimes and added value activity. We were delighted to deliver these grow boxes at The Bemrose School to help boost children’s learning and understanding into the benefits of home-grown produce.

“We hope the grow boxes are an enjoyable practical exercise to help pupils learn more about how to grow food, where it comes from and the ways we can be more environmentally friendly by reducing our food miles.

“At Mellors we’re passionate about fueling learning with only the freshest, quality ingredients from local growers to deliver truly delicious and nutritious meals.  We look forward to seeing the plants grow!”