Our funding supports Health Equalities Group to develop and pilot a Secondary Schools Pledge for healthier school communities. The work recognises that food choices are shaped by the whole school.
The pledge brings together nutrition, physical activity, emotional wellbeing, pupil voice, catering and leadership in one framework. It is being informed by an evidence review and developed with resources for schools to assess their current approach, identify realistic priorities and make manageable improvements.
The pilot is particularly interested in how this model can work in schools serving communities experiencing high levels of disadvantage. It will explore the practical barriers schools face, including limited capacity, competing priorities, academy structures and catering contracts, as well as what helps secure commitment from leaders and staff.
Recruiting secondary schools has proved more difficult than originally expected, which has led the team to adapt its approach and extend the delivery period. This is itself providing useful learning about the pressures schools face and the support they need.
We are funding the pilot to test whether a clear, flexible pledge can help schools connect separate areas of activity and create a healthier culture. The learning will inform whether the model could be strengthened or used more widely.
Awarded July 2025