How Our Preschool Has Been Involved with NOF
Buzzee Beez Preschool has been involved with NOF from the very beginning as part of the original pilot project. At the time, we did not realise just how far this exciting journey would take us!
Our involvement began with a conference focusing on preschool lunchboxes and how settings could support families to reduce unnecessary packaging and foods high in sugar and salt. This led to us being invited to take part in a radio interview, and the BBC also visited our preschool to film a feature about the project.
Staff Training
Our staff have taken part in several online training sessions covering:
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Managing special dietary requirements in early years settings
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Developing a food and nutrition policy
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Understanding appropriate portion sizes
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EYFS nutrition guidance
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Understanding children’s nutritional requirements
This training has helped us review our practice, rewrite our policies and make positive changes to our snack and lunchtime environments. Through NOF, we were invited to take part in TastEd, a food education programme that helps children develop a positive relationship with food through their five senses. We love this programme and continue to use it within our everyday practice. Children are encouraged to look at, touch, smell, listen to and taste different foods without any pressure to eat them. This makes exploring food a positive, enjoyable and inclusive experience.
From Seed to Plate
Our snack times are child-led, with children encouraged to help prepare and serve food. Now that we have our new garden, we can also grow our own fruit and vegetables. This gives children the opportunity to experience the complete journey from seed to plate—planting, caring for and harvesting produce before helping to prepare and taste what they have grown.
Our NOF Awards Journey
We are delighted to have achieved the NOF Rooting Award and are now working towards the next stage, the Sprouting Award.
Our involvement with NOF has made a lasting difference to our preschool. We remain committed to developing our practice and helping every child build a happy, confident and healthy relationship with food.
Working with Families
We work closely with parents to share affordable lunchbox ideas, reduce unnecessary packaging and suggest fresh, healthy alternatives that do not need to cost a lot.
