Pupils across Monmouthshire will benefit from greater choice and variety at lunchtime when a refreshed school menu launches on Monday 2 November 2026.

The new menu has been developed following a comprehensive review involving feedback from pupils, parents, schools and catering staff, alongside analysis of food waste data.

Families told us they wanted more variety, opportunities for children to try new foods, while continuing to access to popular favourites. This feedback has helped shape the refreshed menu while ensuring it complies with the Welsh Government’s updated Healthy Eating in Schools Regulations.

To provide greater flexibility and maintain a reliable daily alternative meal option, new pasta pots will be introduced on Tuesdays and Thursdays, offering choices including chicken mayo, tuna mayo, cheese, sweetcorn and mayo, or tomato and cheese.

Jacket potatoes will continue to be available on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays.

The menu will continue to provide healthy, nutritious meals and will now be served in age-appropriate portion sizes for infants and juniors. Pupils will have access to a wide variety of fruit and vegetables each week, together with a balanced range of dessert options.

By responding to feedback, changing regulations and supply considerations, the team can continue to improve the lunchtime experience for pupils across Monmouthshire.

Monmouthshire County Council’s Cabinet Member for Rural Affairs, Housing and Tourism, Cllr Sara Burch, added: “It is vital that we provide a varied and nutritious menu which gives pupils the energy and concentration they need to get the most from their learning.

“Equally important is ensuring children enjoy their meals, and I am confident the new menu will be welcomed across our schools.

“Thank you to all the parents and children who took the time to tell us what they have enjoyed about the menus introduced in the summer, and where we need to improve.”

The new menu will begin with Week 1 of the menu cycle from 2 November 2026.

For further information, visit: www.monmouthshire.gov.uk/school-meals