Food & Nutrition At The Early Years Academy
At The Early Years Academy, mealtimes are more than just a moment to refuel, they’re an opportunity to nurture lifelong healthy habits, explore new tastes, and enjoy the comfort of warm, seasonal food made with care.
Our menus are thoughtfully designed with young children in mind, supporting their physical development, emotional well-being, and growing independence. Every dish we serve is freshly prepared in-house and created to be both comforting and nourishing, perfect for the colder months when little bodies need extra support to stay well and energised.
Food & Nutrition At The Early Years Academy
At The Early Years Academy, mealtimes are more than just a moment to refuel, they’re an opportunity to nurture lifelong healthy habits, explore new tastes, and enjoy the comfort of warm, seasonal food made with care.
Our menus are thoughtfully designed with young children in mind, supporting their physical development, emotional well-being, and growing independence. Every dish we serve is freshly prepared in-house and created to be both comforting and nourishing, perfect for the colder months when little bodies need extra support to stay well and energised.
Why Our Menus Matter
Working in partnership with Tiny Tums from The Health Kick, our Autumn/Winter Menu is packed with goodness from seasonal produce and features dishes that are rich in nutrients and flavour. The focus is on boosting immunity, supporting gut health, and making food a joyful, social part of the day.
Two-Course Meals
Our two course meals are served daily, with starters or puddings prepared according to EYFS nutrition guidance, no added sugar, no ultra-processed foods.
Visible & Hidden Vegetables
We use visible and hidden vegetables side-by-side to maximise nutrition without compromising a child’s relationship with food.
Tailored Textures
To support all stages of weaning and self-feeding we use a variety of different textured foods throughout our menu.
Weekly Variety
Our seasonal menu runs on a carefully planned three-week cycle, ensuring children enjoy a broad and balanced mix of flavours, textures, and ingredients throughout each month.
Sensory Breakfast Selection
On selected days, we serve sensory-style breakfasts that invite children to explore tastes, textures, and smells in a calm, unhurried environment.
Real Food, Real Benefits
Parents often tell us their children eat better at nursery than they do at home, and we take that as a huge compliment.
From blueberry muffins to warm vegetable dips and hearty mains like lamb hotpot or macaroni cheese, our dishes are child-approved and parent-trusted. Beyond taste, the benefits go deeper:
Helps children build familiarity with a wide range of foods
Encourages social development through shared meals
Promotes independence through self-serving and food preparation activities
Strengthens immunity and mood through seasonal nutrition
Reinforces routines that support school readiness
Download Our Menu & Nutrition Guide
For a full look at what your child will be enjoying this season, feel free to explore our menu and guide below.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do you cater for allergies and dietary requirements?
Yes, absolutely. Our kitchen team is trained in allergen management and we take every precaution to ensure meals are safe and suitable for each child. All allergens are clearly labelled, and we work closely with families to create alternatives where needed.
Is the food cooked on-site?
Yes. All our meals are freshly prepared in-house by our experienced team using high-quality ingredients. This means we can ensure meals are not only nutritious but also tailored to the specific needs and preferences of the children in our care.
How do you ensure the meals are healthy?
Our menus are designed in line with the EYFS nutrition guidelines, which means no added sugar, no ultra-processed ingredients, and plenty of fruit, vegetables and wholesome choices. Every dish is balanced to support healthy growth and development, especially during the colder months when immunity and mood can be affected.
How often does the menu change?
We follow a three-week seasonal cycle, which changes for Autumn/Winter and Spring/Summer. This ensures children enjoy variety throughout the year and benefit from fresh, seasonal produce.
Can I see what my child eats each day?
Yes, we use the Family app to keep you updated on your child’s meals, snacks and portion sizes. You’ll also receive photos and updates during focus weeks, showing how your child is exploring and enjoying food at nursery.
Do children have any involvement in food preparation?
Yes. Through our Baking Academy and other hands-on activities, children are regularly involved in simple food prep and baking. It’s a lovely way to build independence, encourage curiosity around food, and support early maths and fine motor skills.
What if my child is a fussy eater?
We understand that many children go through phases of fussiness — and we approach this with patience and encouragement. Our team use gentle strategies to help children try new foods in a relaxed, social setting. Mealtimes are never pressured and always positive.
