Food and nutrition education in schools helps children and young people understand where food comes from, how it is produced, and how to prepare it confidently and safely. By developing practical skills and informed habits early in life, learners are better equipped to navigate an increasingly complex food environment, make choices that suit their needs and values, and contribute to more resilient and responsible food systems. This education fosters lifelong wellbeing, strengthens community connections around food, and supports a more informed and engaged society.
However, food education should also reach beyond the curriculum. A whole-school approach is essential because it creates a consistent environment where healthy and sustainable choices are supported, modelled, and reinforced throughout every aspect of school life.
We’re on a mission to improve children’s health and wellbeing by making sure they get the best food education possible.
The British Nutrition Foundation’s Education team provides curriculum expertise, training and resources that build knowledge, skills and confidence in food, diet, and health so that children and young people know how to plan, cook and eat in a healthy sustainable way.
Through our flagship education programme, Food - a fact of life, we are working to instil a culture of healthy eating and food literacy in children and young people, helping them to apply their knowledge in meaningful ways.
We help schools integrate comprehensive food and nutrition education into their curriculum, so that pupils get a well-rounded understanding of the importance of nutrition in maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Our work is informed by members of four Education Working Groups in England, Northern Ireland, Scotland, and Wales.
If you are a headteacher, senior leader or governor and would like to know how Food – a fact of life can support your crucial role in creating and embedding a great food culture in your primary school
If you would like to find out more about how the British Nutrition Foundation’s education team can support food education and a whole school approach to food, as well as providing training for teachers and other staff in schools, contact us at education.org.uk.
The cornerstone of our work in schools is the Food - a fact of life programme. The programme meets the requirements of food and nutrition curricula across the UK. It also aligns with other subjects including design and technology, health and wellbeing, science, numeracy, literacy, geography, religious education, and RSE and health education.
Food - a fact of life is founded on a whole school approach. It provides advice and guidance on policy matters relating to the dietary requirements of children and young people and provision of food throughout the school day.
This dynamic and interactive education programme is themed around healthy eating, cooking, and where food comes from. It is designed to inspire pupils of all ages with engaging lessons and resources, such as quizzes, videos, and interactive games. The programme also supports trainee, new, non-specialist and more experienced teachers through guidance and professional development.
Food - a fact of life covers essential topics, such as the principles of a healthy balanced diet, how to plan, cook and prepare food, and food provenance and production. Its versatility allows teachers to tailor content to specific needs and foster a deeper understanding of food that extends beyond the classroom.
The Food - a fact of life programme cultivates critical thinking and decision-making skills, empowering children and young people to independently make informed food choices.