Food at Arlesdene Nursery School & Pre-school
We want snack and mealtimes to feel relaxed, sociable and enjoyable for children while still following National Guidance on keeping food healthy, safe and age-appropriate.
Snack
We offer simple, healthy snacks that follow the Early Years Foundation Stage requirements that food must be healthy, balanced and nutritious.
This usually includes things like fruit, vegetables, and breads/crackers. The aim is to give children energy for play while introducing them to a mix of tastes and textures.
We avoid foods that are high in salt and sugar, and we take care to prepare snacks in a way that reduces choking risk—for example, slicing fruit appropriately.
If your child has an allergy, intolerance, or special dietary need, we will work with you to make sure snacks are always safe and suitable.
Snack Donations
We are extremely fortunate to have part of our snack donated by Warburtons however we do ask for small contributions from parents to go towards the cost. More information is shared during our parents' welcome evenings. At present we can only take cash and this is payable in the school office.
Drinks
We follow the DfE’s nutrition guidance that milk and water should be the only drinks offered in early years settings.
Children have access to drinking water throughout the day, and at snack times they can choose between water and milk. We do not offer juice, squash, or other sugary drinks, as these do not meet the healthy‑drinks guidance.
Lunch
If your child attends for 30 hours, you need to provide a packed lunch. We encourage families to follow the same healthy, balanced approach recommended in the DfE guidance. This means including a mix of food groups, keeping sugar and salt low.
Some simple ideas include:
- A sandwich, wrap or pasta
- Fruit or vegetables (cut safely to avoid choking risks)
- Dairy or dairy alternatives
- A small health snack such as crackers or yoghurt
We do ask that packed lunches do not include nuts due to allergy risks and that treats such as sweets, chocolate bars, and fizzy drinks are kept for home.
Lunch Club
Our Lunch Club provides a calm and homely experience where children can enjoy lunch together in a relaxed and nurturing environment. We place a strong emphasis on encouraging independence, supporting children to set the table and lay out their own food from their lunch boxes. We encourage children to make choices, develop their self-care skills, and gain confidence as they eat and socialise with other children and adults. Lunch is seen as a valuable opportunity for learning, conversation, and building positive routines.
For further details about our Lunch Club, including ideas for lunches, information on allergies and safety reminders, please refer to our Lunch Club leaflet.
Lunch Club Leaflet
Celebrations
We recognise that parties and celebrations are a valued part of life. We aim to make these occasions fun, inclusive, and consistent with our healthy eating ethos.
If you wish to bring food to celebrate your child’s birthday we ask you to bring healthier options such as fruit platters or vegetable sticks to share.
Occasionally, we will celebrate occasions at school, for example Christmas, and school will provide the food for these events. On these occasions, foods high in sugar and salt, such as cakes and crisps will be included alongside healthier choices.
SEND, Special Diets & Individual Eating Needs
We understand that some children with SEND may have very specific eating patterns, sensory needs, or restricted food preferences — and sometimes these diets might not meet the typical nutritional balance recommended for young children.
We want to reassure families that we will work with you to make sure your child feels included, safe, and well‑cared‑for. At the home visit, we will chat with you about your child’s dietary needs, preferences, and any professional advice you’ve been given.