Launceston College Leads the Way in Pioneering ‘Veg-education’ Trial

Healthy snacks take centre stage in a unique Chefs in Schools initiative.

First School to Trial Snack Time Takeover

Launceston College, part of Athena Learning Trust, has become the first school in the country to trial Chefs in Schools’ Snack Time Takeover. The award-winning charity, dedicated to transforming child health through food and education, partnered with the college to explore ways to improve snack offerings for students.

Rosie Armstrong, Head of Catering at Athena Learning Trust, collaborated with Chefs in Schools to bring the trial to life. The initiative aimed to reimagine school break time snacks, offering healthier, more appealing options.

Tasting and Feedback Sessions

The trial which took place on the 28th and 29th of November, introduced students to a variety of innovative, nutritious dishes, including:

• Cauliflower wings with a jalapeno dip
• Baked corn, courgette, and pea fritters
• Veggie sausage rolls with spiced pineapple ketchup
• Noodle boxes

After sampling the snacks, students participated in focus groups to share their feedback. Their insights will inform further research by Chefs in Schools, helping to refine recipes that appeal to young people.

Principal Praises the Trial

Matthew Thompson, Principal at Launceston College, expressed his pride in the school’s involvement, stating:
“I am delighted that Launceston College is the first school in the country to take part in Chefs for Schools Snack Time Takeover trial. The aim of this pop-up snack takeover was to excite students about food, especially in relation to their snack choices, by offering familiar options with a twist.

“It was great to see how interested our students were in the new breaktime offerings and I was so proud of how those who attended the focus groups conducted themselves. They provided some helpful insights which I know Chefs for Schools were grateful for and will bear in mind as they continue their important work.”

A School Committed to Excellence

Launceston College is rated Good across all categories by Ofsted, including Quality of education, Behaviour and attitudes, and Sixth form provision. Inspectors noted that pupils, including those with SEND, follow a broad and ambitious curriculum, building on their knowledge in a logical order.

The trial highlights the college’s commitment to enhancing student experiences and supporting their development through innovative approaches to food education.