Family Dining
At One Degree Academy, we do things a little differently at lunchtime. Instead of a traditional school canteen, we operate a Family Dining model — and it’s an important part of who we are. Family Dining is about much more than just food - it’s a key part of our commitment to character education, values-based learning, and the development of well-rounded, confident young people.
Home Learning Expectations
EYFS (Nursery and Reception)
Reading for 10 minutes daily
- 3 mins: child reads to adult (Phonics book when sent home - read every night until the next one is sent as repetition is important)
- 7 mins: free choice story book adult reads to child asking questions
Mathletics - 10 minutes daily (or 1,000 points weekly)
Tapestry
- Watch weekly video & complete ‘Tapestry Challenge’
- Upload own ‘wow’ moments from home
Boromi - sign up online
KS1 (Years 1 and 2)
Reading for 15 minutes daily
- 5 mins: child reads to adult (Phonics book when sent home - read every night until the next one is sent as repetition is important)
- 10 mins: free choice story book read together
Mathletics - 10 minutes daily (or 1,000 points weekly)
Knowledge Organisers - 3 minutes (mix the subjects over the week)
Spelling Task
Watch Home Learning Video
KS2: Years 3, 4 & 5
Reading - 20 minutes (can be independent, but better if children are reading aloud to help with unfamiliar words and understanding)
Mathletics - 10 minutes daily (or 1,000 points weekly)
TTRS - 5 mins (Garage & Sound Check)
Knowledge Organisers - 3 minutes (mix subjects over the week)
Spelling Task
Watch Home Learning Video
KS2: Year 6
Reading for 20 minutes (should mostly be independent, but at least once a week should be encouraged to read to an adult or older sibling)
Sats Companion
- complete weekly tasks set
- Explore other tasks they find tricky (including Science tasks)
TTRS - 5 minutes daily (garage section)
Knowledge Organisers - 3 minutes (mix subjects over the week)
Spelling Task
Watch Home Learning Video
Why Do We Have Family Dining?
1. Developing Social and Communication Skills
Students sit in small groups and eat together, alongside a teacher or staff member at the table.
They’re encouraged to:
- Talk and listen to one another
- Take turns in conversation
- Practise good table manners
This calm and structured environment helps children learn how to engage politely and confidently with adults and peers from other classes and year groups.
2. Encouraging Positive Behaviour
A respectful, well-organised lunch experience sets the tone for the rest of the day. It helps students return to lessons feeling calm, settled, and ready to learn.
Students of all ages take responsibility by:
- Setting the table
- Serving food
- Clearing up after the meal
These shared routines help build teamwork and a strong sense of responsibility.
3. Fostering Community and Inclusion
Everyone eats the same freshly prepared meal at the same time, and students do not bring in packed lunches or snacks.
Family Dining creates a family-style atmosphere, where every child feels included and valued.
However it is not just about eating, it’s also a moment to celebrate success and show appreciation — students recognise each other for showing our values through daily ‘shoutouts’, helping to build a culture of gratitude and respect.
4. Promoting Healthy Eating Habits
Our staff model healthy eating and encourage students to try new foods in a relaxed, supportive setting.
We know students are more likely to enjoy nutritious meals when they see others doing the same.
At One Degree, we believe it’s important to help children become adventurous and confident eaters as part of their wider development.
Our Food: Fresh, Nutritious & High Quality
All our meals are prepared daily by expert chefs from JPL catering, using only the freshest ingredients.
- All food is nut-free
- All meat is Halal
- All students allergies are catered for
- Meals meet the standards set out in the school food plan
JPL Catering has been certified by ISO 9001 and 1400 certification in addition to regulatory requirements.
You can view our current menu here