Milton Keynes nursery wins national award for five star meals it serves to tots

Woodlands Day Nursery in Byerly Place on Downs Barn was praised by the judges for its high quality, nutritious meals as well as it contribution to the children’s learning and development through cooking activities.

The nursery menu has "glowing" feedback from parents, who praised the impressive dishes and accommodation to allergies and dietary requirements.

It includes a meat-free day twice a week and recipes that include organic milk, homemade bread, chickpeas, quinoa, and lentils with no trans-fats, sweeteners or additives.

All are sourced from suppliers committed to the highest standards of production and organic produce from local suppliers is used where possible. The children contribute by growing their own herbs and vegetables in the garden outside, where children also learn key maths, science and eco skills.

Families are even provided with recipe cards to help make healthy and informed choices at home.

The ‘Best of the Best’ virtual awards ceremony was organised by the Childbase Partnership and hosted by pop group Scouting for Girls.

Woodlands Day Nursery Chef Tracy Miller said: “We are absolutely delighted to have been recognised for our efforts with this award and the fact that the nominations came from our nursery families makes this all the

more rewarding. We are hugely proud of the food we serve, and are passionate about sourcing and serving healthy meals which also benefit the environment.”

Woodlands kitchens have a five star National Food Hygiene Rating from the Food Standards Agency. and has also won a Served Here’ award from the Soil Association for the second consecutive year for its ‘salt and added sugar-free’ home cooked meals.