We’re excited to share the latest update on our growing nutrition education programme with Sophie Wallis (ANutr), Registered Associate Nutritionist at Independents by Sodexo.
Since joining the team, Sophie has been working closely with independent schools across our network, helping pupils gain a practical understanding of food, health and wellbeing.
With a focus on making nutrition more relevant and engaging, Sophie specialises in breaking down evidence-based findings into learnings that pupils can apply in everyday life. Her work spans nutrition education, plant-based eating and sports nutrition, with a strong emphasis on supporting wellbeing, energy and long-term health in school settings.
Connecting nutrition and wellbeing at Wellington College
Recently Sophie joined a lunchtime nutrition stand during ‘Connect Week’, at Wellington College, working alongside Michael Wyndham, Head of Wellbeing & Physical Fitness.
The programme, led by the Prefect team, encouraged pupils to “Connect with Yourself” at a time when academic pressure starts to increase. The session focused on simple tips to support concentration. Pupils explored topics such as fuelling effectively for learning and sport, hydration, sleep, and managing energy levels across the school day. A key message was the benefits of consistent choices, particularly around reducing added sugar and maintaining steady energy to support focus, mood and concentration.
The wider Connect Week programme also linked closely with a whole-school exploration of the neuroscience of focus and resilience. Neuroscientist TJ Power introduced the DOSE framework (dopamine, oxytocin, serotonin and endorphins), exploring how these chemicals influence motivation, connection, calm confidence and resilience. The science was translated into everyday actions such as prioritising sleep, spending time outdoors, moving regularly and being mindful of screen time.
Together, these sessions helped pupils understand how nutrition and lifestyle choices connect directly to how they feel and perform each day.
Hands-on learning through MAD Day at Wellington College Prep
Sophie also spent time at Wellington College Prep as part of their MAD (Make A Difference) Day, where pupils stepped away from their usual timetable to take part in a range of enrichment activities.
Sophie and the team introduced pupils to a variety of unusual and colourful fruits and vegetables, encouraging curiosity and discussion around food diversity and balanced eating. Pupils then got hands-on, blending their own smoothies using fresh ingredients and creating their own “superfood” energy balls.
The session was lively and interactive, giving pupils the chance to explore nutrition through taste, texture and preparation. The focus on variety, balance and enjoyment helped reinforce the thinking that everyday food choices can support wellbeing in a way that is practical and accessible.
Looking ahead
By combining clear, evidence-based guidance with hands-on, interactive learning, Sophie is supporting schools and pupils to become more confident in their understanding of food and wellbeing. We’re looking forward to building on this work and continuing to grow the programme across our school communities in the months ahead.