Packed Lunches

If children are supported to make healthy choices when they are young then they are more likely to make those choices throughout their life. The contents of a packed lunch not only help with this but also provide the balanced diet that growing children need. At Willow Lane, we want all children to be healthy and therefore have clear expectations on what should and shouldn’t be in a packed lunch.

A healthy packed school lunch includes a main starchy item (like wholemeal bread, rice, or pasta), a portion of protein (such as meat, fish, eggs, or beans), plenty of fruit and vegetables, a dairy or alternative, and a healthy drink like water or milk. We discourage high-fat, high-sugar foods like crisps and confectionery, encouraging balanced lunches for better energy and focus throughout the school day. Chocolate, sweets and fizzy drinks are not allowed in a child’s packed lunch and will be sent home if seen.

Key components of a healthy packed lunch:

Starchy Foods:
Base the lunch around foods rich in carbohydrates and fibre.

Examples: Wholemeal rolls, pasta salad, rice, wholewheat crackers, or wraps.
Protein:
Include a source of protein for growth and energy.

Examples: Ham, chicken, tuna, hard-boiled eggs, or a chickpea/bean salad.
Fruits & Vegetables:
Aim for at least one portion of fruit and one portion of vegetables.

Examples: Sliced apples, carrot sticks, cucumber, grapes (halved), or cherry tomatoes.
Dairy/Calcium:
Add a dairy item or a non-dairy alternative.

Examples: A pot of yogurt, cheese sticks, or a cheese spread.
Healthy Drink:
Provide a healthy beverage.

Examples: Water, semi-skimmed milk, or low-sugar squash.

Foods to limit:

High-fat, high-salt, and high-sugar items should be avoided, such as:
- Crisps
- Confectionery (sweets or chocolate bars)
- Sugar-containing carbonated drinks

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