At Independents by Sodexo, we are committed to helping pupils develop a positive relationship with food through our growing nutrition education programme. Spearheading this initiative is Sophie Wallis (ANutr), our Registered Associate Nutritionist, who works closely with our partner Independent schools to deliver engaging and accessible nutrition workshops. These sessions bring food education to life, equipping pupils with practical knowledge and healthy habits that support their wellbeing both in and out of the classroom.
With expertise in nutrition education, plant-based eating and sports nutrition, Sophie is passionate about turning evidence-based guidance into meaningful lessons that pupils can carry into their everyday lives.
Recently, Sophie visited LVS Hassocks in West Sussex to deliver a series of nutrition workshops for Year 7 pupils with special educational needs. Designed around healthy eating during the summer holidays, the sessions encouraged pupils to reflect on the importance of a balanced diet, staying well hydrated and incorporating a colourful variety of fruits and vegetables into their meals.
While the workshops began with discussions around healthy eating habits, they quickly evolved into an exciting exploration of unusual fruits. Working in small groups, pupils were introduced to a selection of vibrant and exotic produce — some of which they had never encountered before. The activity invited pupils to use all their senses: observing each fruit, guessing its name, predicting its appearance inside and discussing its texture, colour and aroma before tasting it. From kumquats and mangosteens to mangoes and kiwis, the sessions sparked curiosity and plenty of lively conversation.
For many pupils, it was a genuine opportunity to step outside their comfort zone and try something new. The sensory nature of the activity proved particularly valuable, creating an inclusive and supportive learning environment where every pupil could engage with food at their own pace and in their own way.
Pupils also received take-home resources and activities designed to reinforce key messages and encourage conversations about healthy eating with their families, extending the learning well beyond the classroom.
The response from both pupils and staff was overwhelmingly positive. Pupils embraced the chance to explore unfamiliar foods, with many discovering new favourites and showing a real willingness to try things they might previously have avoided. Staff were delighted with the level of engagement throughout the sessions and the genuine enthusiasm pupils showed for learning about nutrition.
Workshops such as these highlight the vital role food education can play within independent schools. By creating positive, memorable experiences around food, pupils develop greater confidence, broaden their food choices and build healthy habits that will serve them well both now and in the future.
A huge thank you to Jim Gavin, Sarah Prater and the wider team at LVS Hassocks for their support in organising these workshops and helping to make them such a success.
We look forward to continuing our work with independent schools across the Independents community, inspiring more pupils to discover the benefits of healthy eating through these interactive and engaging nutrition education sessions.