BOOK PLACES
SEMINAR PROGRAMME
09.00 Arrival, registration and coffee
09.30 Welcome, Aims of the Day and The School Food People Update
Anita Brown, Director, Chair of the Events Group
followed by Brad Pearce, The School Food People National Chair
Brad will kick the day off with an update on The School Food People strategy and focus for 2026.
09.55 Food in primary schools - studying children's real-world food choice and dietary behaviour
Dr Hannah Ensaff – University of Leeds
10.25 Update on Funding model research and trials
Greta Defeyter and Adam Curtis - Greta and Adam will be providing an update on the progress so far and whether there really is a successful alternative funding model to consider
10.55 Junior Chef Competition
Hear the news surrounding a new and exciting competition being launched later in the year to schools
11.05 Coffee Break and Brunch
11.40 Grab ‘n’ Go Interview
David Foad, Group Editor for School Caterer interviews 2025 Grab ‘N’ Go winner Andre Alto about his experiences of the competition, the excitement of winning and looking forward to the 2026 competition.
11.55 Political Update - Lee Petar, Menara Advisors
12.15 The School Food People Show & Forum Update - Andrew Archer, Dewberry Redpoint
12.25 Case Study – What makes a successful regional event
Kath Breckon from The School Food People (Yorkshire & Humberside region) will outline the key factors behind the region’s well-attended and popular events. She will share practical advice, insights, and ideas that you can take back and apply to your own regional events.
12.45 Case Study – Nourish Allergen Policy and Strategy
Julie Watson from Nourish shares how the organisation develops and implements effective allergen policies and strategies to create safe, inclusive food environments.
13.05 Case Study – Secondary School – Telford Langley Catering team
Learn how the Telford Langley catering team combines innovation, teamwork, and community spirit to maintain exceptional service despite major challenges.
13.25 Closing Remarks
13.30 Finish