The Gilberd School was one of six pioneering Essex schools to join the initiative in early 2025, with each receiving a £4,000 grant to launch their projects. Since then, local engagement has surged, with 14 schools across the county enrolling for the 2025/26 cohort, making Essex the largest single county representation in the entire national programme.
Students lead the change in the school canteen
The student team has successfully transformed lunchtimes by working with a new catering company to provide a refreshed and more diverse menu for students. Menus are now clearly displayed on digital screens to provide clarity over options, queue times have been cut down, and new tray collection points keep the dining area tidy.
But the improvements go beyond the food. They have directed Bite Back funding and are adding 5 water fountains to the site in addition to the ones already there. Next up, the team is planning international "Culture Days" to showcase diverse foods, using a new catering opinion box and digital surveys to ensure every student has a say.
Bridging the gap between speed and nutrition
A student focus group held with representatives from Essex County Council’s Public Health and the Essex Child and Family Wellbeing Service (ECFWS) highlighted a clear gap between convenience and nutrition. While younger students enjoy options like pizza, they expressed concern over greasy choices and a lack of quick-access healthy alternatives. To bridge this gap, they are calling for portable, plastic-free salad pots so they can eat quickly and still play lunchtime sports, alongside customisable food stations to build healthy wraps with fresh ingredients.
Growing a sustainable legacy
Students are working to activate the school garden to grow fresh, hyper-local produce for the kitchen, which will cut food costs and provide fresher, cheaper, and more sustainable on-site food. Reflecting on the experience, Chloe, the Bite Back Champion has published a blog on Bite Back's website about her experience with the Bite Back in Schools programme: Shaping English School Food From the Inside: Chloe’s Bite Back Journey
Ms Marie Hollands, Food Teacher & Bite Back Lead of The Gilberd School said: “We are extremely proud of our students and the achievements they have accomplished through teamwork, determination and leadership”
Cllr David King, Deputy Leader of the Council and Portfolio Holder for Communities and Public Protection said: “Proving that when young people are given a voice, they can fundamentally transform their environment for the better. This project is a shining example of how our communities can work together to build a fairer, healthier food system for the next generation.”
Applications open for next academic year
With the programme continuing to grow, applications for Bite Back in Schools are now open for the 2026/27 academic year with a deadline set for Friday 24 July 2026. To celebrate the region's outstanding engagement, any Essex school that applies before the deadline will receive a boosted £1,000 grant to kickstart their project, doubling the standard £500 national offer. For details, please visit https://www.biteback2030.com/bite-back-in-schools/england-join-bite-back-in-schools/.