A Fantastic Term with the Eat Well – Stay Well Project

This term, we’ve had the absolute pleasure of working with 315 children from Hamp Academy, 183 from Hamp Infants, and 47 from Hamp Nursery through our Eat Well – Stay Well programme. The children took part in exciting, hands-on food taster sessions, where they explored a variety of foods from all five food groups. Each child also received their own Eatwell Plate to take home—helping them continue their food journey with their families. Families were also invited to take part in further online learning.

As part of the home challenge, children were encouraged to eat 30 different plant-based foods and 7 different protein-rich foods from the animal kingdom. This engaging task not only introduced them to new tastes and textures but also helped broaden their understanding of a balanced, nutritious diet.

The feedback has been heartwarming. Children have tried foods they’d never tasted before—green lentils, kidney beans, beetroot, and most notably, fresh fish. The fresh fish sessions were a real highlight. At the beginning of each session, we asked, “Who likes fish?”—and very few hands went up. But after an engaging exploration—touching the tail, examining the eyes and mouth, and learning how to cook it—almost every child changed their mind. By the end, when we asked the same question again, 99%, and in some classes even 100%, raised their hands.

Many children explained that they thought they didn’t like fish because they had only tried old or poorly cooked versions before. But fresh fish? That was a game-changer. One child said, “I didn’t know fish could taste this good!”

And best of all, we received feedback from the school that some children have since been spotted at the fishmonger in Morrisons, buying fresh fish!

Why Involve Children in Healthy Eating?

Getting children excited about healthy food is essential. Research shows that our eating habits are largely formed in childhood—what we grow up eating often becomes what we continue to eat as adults. That’s why it’s so important to expose children to a wide range of nutritious foods early on.

Childhood is also a period of rapid growth and development, and a varied, nutrient-rich diet gives the body and brain the fuel they need to thrive—physically, emotionally, and mentally.

What’s been truly special is seeing how the learning continues at home. Families have embraced the project—cooking new recipes, trying new ingredients, and discovering that healthy eating can be fun, delicious, and rewarding.

Want to Get Involved?

If you haven’t signed up for the Eat Well – Stay Well project yet, now’s the perfect time! Join us for some summer holiday taster sessions, and continue with our 6-week online programme in September, which you can join from the comfort of your own home.

Visit our website to register—let’s help the next generation develop a healthy relationship with food that lasts a lifetime.