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WQ.47/2021
WRITTEN QUESTION TO THE MINISTER FOR EDUCATION BY DEPUTY R.J. WARD OF ST. HELIER
QUESTION SUBMITTED ON MONDAY 15th FEBRUARY 2021 ANSWER TO BE TABLED ON MONDAY 22nd FEBRUARY 2021
Question
Will the Minister advise what work, if any, is currently being undertaken to evaluate the free school meals pilot; and will he outline the timescale for decision-making regarding the future of this scheme?
Answer
The pilot scheme is part of the Nutrition Strategy with budget held outside of CYPES. It is being managed by the Pilot Steering Group and Operational team who meet on a regular basis. At these meetings, the pilot scheme rollout, KPI's and key data relating to the following is evaluated:
- Meal service - percentage uptake across the three pilot schools to ensure eligible parents are aware and signing up.
- Income support families – current uptake, (and consideration as to how this will be managed in the future, the approach, working with CLS, compliance/data sharing etc.)
- Surveys - parental survey results and taster sessions
- Food waste - measured to inform menu development
- Menu development – compliance with the Government's food nutrition strategy
- Risks and issues – any current onsite and potential future risks and issues are considered
- Finance - cost per meal, income and expenditure performance and forecast.
- Engagement ideas – internal and external communication and supporting agencies.
The service provider collects, and reports data based on the KPI's agreed at the outset of the partnership. They collect this data through online surveys and using a token system (each day) which is a simple way for children to indicate the meals they like and don't like.
The KPI's include:
• Child satisfaction
• Parent satisfaction
• Current uptake for parent paid meals and free school meals.
Financial projections and food model proposals are anticipated to be presented in June this year, with next steps agreed, including funding requirements and approach, which could include a full procurement and tendering process. The final evaluation of the data, food model and capital outlay will form the decision- making process and it is envisaged that a phased scheme for the provision of a school meals service across the Primary schools will be in place for by Q1 2022.