The Government has announced significant changes to the School Food Standards in England, with updated requirements due to come into effect from September 2027.

The new standards, which apply to state-funded schools, are designed to bring school food in line with the latest nutritional guidance and place an increased emphasis on fruit, vegetables, fibre and wholegrains, while reducing foods high in fat, sugar and salt.



While the changes have understandably attracted attention, many of the principles behind them are already firmly embedded in the way we approach school catering at Connect Catering.

What is Changing?

Under the proposed new standards, schools will be expected to increase the amount of fruit, vegetables and fibre offered to pupils, introduce more wholegrain options and include pulses within menus.

Every main savoury meal will need to include a starchy carbohydrate, a source of protein and vegetables or salad, while tighter restrictions will apply to foods and drinks high in fat, sugar and salt. New standards will also cover breakfast provision.



The changes are expected to take effect from September 2027, subject to Parliamentary approval, with some requirements for secondary schools phased in from September 2028.

Already Part of Our Approach

Although the statutory School Food Standards apply to state-funded schools, the principles behind the new requirements reflect an approach we've long taken within our independent and SEND school partnerships.

Our menus are designed to provide pupils with balanced, nutritious meals while ensuring that food remains exciting, varied and – importantly – something children genuinely want to eat.

From incorporating vegetables, wholegrains and pulses into menus to providing balanced main meals and carefully considering the frequency of desserts and other treats, nutrition and variety sit alongside flavour and enjoyment when our teams develop school menus.



Because providing nutritious food isn't simply about meeting a set of standards. It's about helping children develop positive relationships with food that can last well beyond their school years.

Healthy Food Pupils Want to Eat

One of the challenges facing any school catering team is balancing nutritional requirements with pupil engagement.

A nutritionally perfect meal has little value if it comes back to the kitchen uneaten.

That's why our approach combines balanced menu planning with fresh ingredients, seasonal dishes, theme days and opportunities to introduce pupils to new flavours and cuisines.



We also recognise that every school community is different. Menus need to reflect pupils' ages, tastes, cultural requirements, allergies and dietary needs, with particular consideration given to the individual requirements of pupils within SEND settings.

Raising the Standard of School Food

The renewed national focus on school food is something we welcome.

While independent schools aren't legally required to comply with the School Food Standards, we believe every child deserves access to nutritious, varied and enjoyable food during their school day.



For us, the principles being championed through the new standards aren't something to work towards for September 2027 – they're already part of how we approach school catering today.