Refurbished Newtown school kitchen acts as classroom for cooking course that connects community

Maesyrhandir CP School in Newtown, mid Wales, recently benefited from a new kitchen using funding made available through the Welsh Government’s Universal Primary Free School Meals programme.

Facilities were improved with the addition of new extractor fans, steamers, fridge freezers, and ovens.

It now hosts a catering course with NPTC Group of Colleges and Powys County Council, which offers parents and carers the chance to gain an NVQ level 2 qualification using the school’s kitchen equipment.

It is one of three within the Powys County Council area to offer the catering pilot scheme as part of the council’s Community Focused Schools programme.

The course aims to improve family engagement and upskill the community while supporting and encouraging parents to provide healthy, balanced meals at home.

Acting Headteacher Caroline Bufton said: “It’s been wonderful to see the children have access to a variety of foods, and I see more of them all sitting together during lunchtime. Children with additional learning needs have particularly benefited, as it’s allowed them to try different foods while having support from our staff.”

Since the rollout uptake of Universal Primary Free School Meals at Maesyrhandir CP School has risen to 72 per cent, higher than the national average of 70.2 per cent, serving an average of 90 hot meals a day.

Sophie Yates, family liaison officer for Powys County Council, said: “These programmes have shone a light on the importance of child nutrition, and the parents I’m seeing now are excited about providing nutritional value for their children.”

At Maesyrhandir, the impact goes beyond new kitchen equipment allowing more meals to be served in school. Both learners and the wider community benefit, not just in school but at home and in the workplace too.  

Wales launched the UPFSM rollout in September 2022. Since then, more than 30 million meals have been served across Wales, with an additional 175,000 learners entitled to a free school meal.

Every primary school child in Wales is now entitled to a free school meal. Wales is the first UK nation to provide every primary school child with a free school meal.  

Families with children in reception to year 11 on lower incomes and in receipt of some benefits can also apply for the School Essentials Grant. Parents and carers can claim up to £200 for school essentials to help cover the cost of school uniform, sports kit and stationery.

When children are eligible for the School Essentials Grant, their school also receives additional financial support to help fund equipment, school activities and initiatives.  

To check your eligibility and for more information on help with school costs, visit this website.