What the policies are for#

Operational policies guide Ministry of Education staff when a school or kura requests changes or additional funding for the Healthy School Lunches programme.

Each policy outlines the steps staff must follow when a school or kura signals its intention to make changes to the programme.

Withdrawing from the programme#

This operational policy makes sure that any proposed change considers its impact on students and the school or kura, and includes consultation with the community.

Before a formal withdrawal letter is submitted by the school board, the school or kura must allow the Healthy School Lunches team to engage on the withdrawal request.

Changing delivery model or supplier#

The delivery model variance (DMV) operational policy makes sure meal providers are consulted and given the opportunity to resolve issues and support schools in addressing challenges.

Any proposed change needs to consider the impact on students, the school or kura, the programme’s overall commercial viability, and includes consultation with the community.

Supplier performance management#

The Supplier Performance Management policy provides a consistent process for managing performance issues across all lunch providers, ensuring safe and nutritious lunches for all students.

Small and isolated funding#

The small and isolated funding operational policy ensures equitable access to the Healthy School Lunches programme by providing additional financial support to schools, kura, and meal providers facing barriers due to roll size or location. It sets clear eligibility criteria and an application process to follow.