The Oral Health Foundation is proud to support the launch of Fuel for Learning - a new, parent-led toolkit designed to help families better understand and influence what their children eat at school.

Developed by the Children’s Food Campaign, part of Sustain, this practical guide has been co-designed with parents to make school food systems clearer, more transparent, and easier to navigate.

Why it matters

Food plays a vital role in children’s health, wellbeing, and ability to learn - including their oral health. Yet for many parents, the way school meals are planned and delivered can feel complex or difficult to influence.

“What children eat at school doesn’t just affect their energy and concentration - it has a direct impact on their oral health and long-term wellbeing. Giving parents the tools to understand and influence school food is a vital step towards creating healthier environments for children to thrive.”

Karen Coates, Oral Health Educator at the Oral Health Foundation

What the toolkit offers

The guide gives parents and carers the knowledge and confidence to get involved, including:

• Clear explanations of how school food provision works.
• Insight into who makes decisions and where influence lies.
• Practical templates and step-by-step guidance for taking action.

Whether you are just starting to ask questions or ready to advocate for change, this toolkit helps ensure every parent feels informed, empowered, and heard.

Get involved

Children spend around 190 days a year in school - that’s 190 opportunities for food to shape their health, energy, and long-term wellbeing.

We encourage our supporters and partners to explore the toolkit and share it with parents and carers in their networks.

Access Fuel for Learning