School Lunches

What do the girls eat during the day?

Healthy School Meals

At The Cavendish School, healthy eating is an important part of school life and pupil wellbeing. We are proud to provide freshly prepared, nutritious school meals that support concentration, energy and a positive relationship with food from an early age.

Our much-loved chef, Linda Chinsman, plays a central role in the daily life of the school community, preparing delicious and balanced lunches that are enjoyed by both pupils and staff in our relaxed and sociable dining hall. Lunchtimes are an important opportunity for girls to pause, connect with friends and enjoy a healthy meal together before returning to play and learning.

Mrs Chinsman leads an experienced catering team who have been part of The Cavendish School community for many years. Menus are created in partnership with Accent Catering, combining nutritional expertise with creativity, variety and seasonal ingredients. Throughout the year, pupils also take part in food-focused workshops and themed events celebrating topics such as healthy eating, seasonal produce, British farming and “brain food”.

Daily menus include a variety of hot meals, vegetarian options and an extensive salad selection, encouraging girls to make healthy and balanced choices independently. As part of our commitment to sustainability and wellbeing, the school is meat-free on two days each week.

Pupils select their lunches in a supportive canteen-style environment, with staff encouraging girls to try new foods, broaden their tastes and develop positive eating habits. Desserts regularly include fresh fruit and homemade yoghurt, and opportunities to explore cooking and nutrition continue beyond lunchtime through lessons and clubs where girls may bake bread, prepare soups and learn practical food skills.

All pupils enjoy school lunches provided by the school. Girls are also encouraged to bring a healthy break-time snack from home, excluding nuts and sweets, along with a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated throughout the day.

Through our approach to healthy eating, The Cavendish School helps girls develop confidence, independence and lifelong healthy habits within a caring and community-focused environment.