Primary School aged children

Free School meals

All children aged 5 to 7 are eligible for free school meals, and some older children may qualify through benefit-related free school meals. Families can find out more at www.torbay.gov.uk/fsm

Primary School Lunchboxes (Ages 5 to 11)

Building a balanced lunchbox

Like school meals, a healthy packed lunch should include foods from the Eatwell Guide and provide the right balance of energy and nutrients for growing children

Starchy energy foods

Choose one main energy food:

• Wholemeal or mixed-grain bread
• Wraps, bagels or pitta breads
• Rice, couscous or pasta
• Potatoes
• Crackers or oatcakes

Wholegrain options provide extra fibre and longer-lasting energy.

Protein foods

• Chicken
• Lean meat
• Boiled eggs
• Fish
• Beans, lentils and chickpeas
• Hummus
• Nut butters (where allowed)

Fruit and vegetables

Try to include at least one fruit and one vegetable every day.

Ideas include:

• Berries
• Melon
• Satsumas
• Grapes (cut lengthways)
• Tomatoes
• Carrot sticks
• Peppers
• Salad in sandwiches

Dairy or dairy alternatives

• Cheese
• Milk
• Natural yoghurt
• Greek yoghurt

These provide calcium for growing bones and teeth.

Drinks

Send a named water bottle where possible. Water is the best choice for both health and dental wellbeing. 

Top tips for parents

• Involve children in preparing their lunchbox.
• Add crunchy vegetables with a dip.
• Use leftovers such as chicken, cooked vegetables or pasta.
• Keep lunches cool using freezer packs.
• Pack healthy breaktime snacks such as fruit, vegetable sticks, rice cakes or breadsticks.
• Check school allergen policies before packing foods containing nuts.