Pioneering school meals team praised at national awards

The catering team at Turton and Edgworth CE/Methodist Primary School have reached the finals of a nationwide local catering competition thanks to their healthy and tasty meals.

The team have made the final three in the LACA Awards – Lead Association for Catering in Education.

They have been recognized not only for the delicious school meals but for the work they do across the school, including linking in with lessons to make themed meals and work with parents and the community.

These include a lavish historical banquet to join up with a school project on the Tudors and inviting parents and carers to sample the meals on offer.

The winner of the award – Self-delivered Primary School category – will be announced at a gala dinner at the Hilton Metropole in Birmingham on Thursday, July 10.

Headteacher Angela Stott said: “This is an absolutely wonderful achievement and is a testament to the fantastic enthusiasm and expertise of catering manager Suzanne Appleton and the catering team.

“They are all excellent and so passionate about their work with the children, staff, parents and the community. As well as providing top class meals they also do a great deal of hands on work with the children to support healthy eating, nutrition and the curriculum as well as wonderful work with community groups. They absolutely deserve to be nominated for such a prestigious award.”

Cllr Dave Harling, Blackburn with Darwen Council’s Executive Member for Schools and Education, said: “Healthy, nutritious and tasty food is incredibly important for young people and I am thrilled that the catering team at the school are working so hard to provide this to their pupils and are also helping to make it an interesting part of their education. I wish them the best of luck at the awards.”