Report on free school meals in specialist schools

One in four children who are entitled to free school meals in special schools aren’t taking them up, according to an Adapt-Ed study.

Led by researchers at the University of Hertfordshire in partnership with the University of Essex and the charity School Food Matters, this research looks at ways to improve school food for children with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND).

Researchers found that children attending specialist schools, who have a greater chance of growing up in poverty and qualify for free school meals, are far likely to be able to access this due to ‘unmet dietary and eating needs.

Some children may even go the entire school day without eating properly, which can worsen concentration, increase anxiety and dysregulation, as well as contributing to physical health problems.

Children with SEND, according to researchers, are more likely to rely on familiar or ‘safe’ foods, but these aren’t always available in special schools. Presentation and how new foods are introduced can make a big difference.

Rebecca O’Connell, professor of food, families and society at the University of Hertfordshire, said: “Better school meal uptake can improve children’s nutrition, mental health, learning, and support family finances, as well as provide benefits for the school, such as improved attendance and behaviour. However, not only do schools face many challenges in providing nutritious, inclusive meals, it is not straightforward to agree on what good food looks like or how to deliver it in special schools.

“We know that too many children with SEND are missing out on nutritious school food, but there is a lack of systemic data and policy attention to ensure inclusive provision. This has to change. We urgently want to see evidence-based school food provision that works for all children.”

The report therefore recommends that the government make evidence-based solutions on how schools can best meet the food needs of children with SEND.