Oasis Academy Blakenhale Juniors talk school meals on BBC Breakfast

Oasis Academy Blakenhale Juniors has been featured on BBC Breakfast (from 5m3s) this morning and on BBC News online in a news report examining the Government’s new school food standards. 

The new rules commit to more fresh fruit and vegetable, a ban on deep-fried food, alongside an increase in fibre and wholegrains. In what the Government is calling ‘the biggest school dinner shake-up in over a decade’ school breakfast clubs will also have to follow these nutrition rules for the first time, with schools also being monitored.

Alongside seeing the Sodexo catering team prep a nutritious lunch and speaking with a handful of Oasis Academy Blakenhale Junior’s Year 3 class, the BBC visited the academy to hear from Principal Farzana Ahmad and parent Kinza Butt to learn more about how schools are navigating the new reforms while also responding to the increased demand for Free School Meals.

As a school where more than 60% of pupils currently receive Free School Meals, Oasis Academy Blakenhale Juniors understands the important role access to nutritious food can play in helping children succeed both inside and outside the classroom.

Also speaking later on BBC Radio West Midlands, (listen from 1h7m) Farzana highlighted the importance of ensuring children are well-fed, supported and ready to learn, while also discussing the wider support available to families through the academy and the local community.

Alongside its educational provision, the academy is a part of the National Best Start Breakfast programme, utilises the NHS Health Start free fruit and veg for schools scheme and supports families via its brand new Oasis Blakenhale Community Space, which offers  a range of initiatives including food support, family engagement opportunities and wider community activities.

The BBC’s feature provided an opportunity to showcase the positive work taking place across the academy and its ongoing commitment to serving the wider Garretts Green community.

We are incredibly proud of everyone involved and grateful to the BBC for highlighting the important contribution schools make in supporting children and families every day.